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Types of Bilberry: Forms & Bioavailability

Evidence:Moderate
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This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Statements about dietary supplements have not been evaluated by the FDA and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Individual results may vary — consult your healthcare provider before starting any supplement. Full disclaimer

Forms Comparison

FormBioavailabilityBest For
Standardized Bilberry Extract (25% anthocyanins)ModerateGeneral eye health — the most common and well-studied form
Bilberry Extract (36% anthocyanins)Moderate-HighHigher potency — concentrated anthocyanin content
Whole Bilberry PowderLow-ModerateWhole-food approach — lower anthocyanin concentration but includes fiber

Standardized Bilberry Extract (25% anthocyanins)

Bioavailability: Moderate. Best for: General eye health — the most common and well-studied form.

Bilberry Extract (36% anthocyanins)

Bioavailability: Moderate-High. Best for: Higher potency — concentrated anthocyanin content.

Whole Bilberry Powder

Bioavailability: Low-Moderate. Best for: Whole-food approach — lower anthocyanin concentration but includes fiber.

Full Bilberry Guide

References

  1. RCTOzawa Y, Kawashima M, Inoue S, et al. (2015). Bilberry extract supplementation for preventing eye fatigue in video display terminal workers. Journal of Nutrition, Health and Aging. DOI PubMed
  2. Canter PH, Ernst E (2004). Anthocyanosides of Vaccinium myrtillus (bilberry) for night vision — a systematic review of placebo-controlled trials. Survey of Ophthalmology. DOI PubMed
  3. ReviewKalt W, Cassidy A, Howard LR, et al. (2020). Recent Research on the Health Benefits of Blueberries and Their Anthocyanins. Advances in Nutrition. DOI PubMed
  4. ReviewGrohmann T, Litts C, Horgan G, Zhang X, et al. (2021). Efficacy of Bilberry and Grape Seed Extract Supplement Interventions to Improve Glucose and Cholesterol Metabolism and Blood Pressure in Different Populations-A Systematic Review of the Literature.. Nutrients. DOI PubMed
  5. Ulbricht C, Basch E, Basch S, Bent S, et al. (2009). An evidence-based systematic review of bilberry (Vaccinium myrtillus) by the Natural Standard Research Collaboration.. Journal of dietary supplements. DOI PubMed
  6. ReviewCanter PH, Ernst E (2004). Anthocyanosides of Vaccinium myrtillus (bilberry) for night vision--a systematic review of placebo-controlled trials.. Survey of ophthalmology. DOI PubMed
  7. Meta-analysisTalebi S, Shirani M, Mahdavi A, Bagherniya M, et al. (2025). Investigating the Effects of Vaccinium myrtillus Supplementation on Cardiometabolic Indices: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.. Phytotherapy research : PTR. DOI PubMed
Show 5 more references
  1. Kara M, Hasbal-Celikok G, Wilson J, Gómez-Serranillos P, et al. (2025). In vitro mechanistic studies and potential health benefits of a standardized bilberry extract in low mood and cognitive enhancement.. Frontiers in nutrition. DOI PubMed
  2. Nobile V, Dudonné S, Kern C, Roveda G, et al. (2024). Antiaging, Brightening, and Antioxidant Efficacy of Fermented Bilberry Extract (Vaccinium myrtillus): A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Trial.. Nutrients. DOI PubMed
  3. Szumny D, Kucharska AZ, Czajor K, Bernacka K, et al. (2024). Extract from Aronia melanocarpa, Lonicera caerulea, and Vaccinium myrtillus Improves near Visual Acuity in People with Presbyopia.. Nutrients. DOI PubMed
  4. Grohmann T, Walker AW, Russell WR, Hoggard N, et al. (2023). A grape seed and bilberry extract reduces blood pressure in individuals at risk of developing type 2 diabetes: the PRECISE study, a double-blind placebo-controlled cross-over intervention study.. Frontiers in nutrition. DOI PubMed
  5. Chan SW, Chu TTW, Choi SW, Benzie IFF, et al. (2021). Impact of short-term bilberry supplementation on glycemic control, cardiovascular disease risk factors, and antioxidant status in Chinese patients with type 2 diabetes.. Phytotherapy research : PTR. DOI PubMed