Bilberry Supplements for Eye Health and Circulation Support

🫐 A Tale of Two Blueberries

At a tiny café in northern Europe, an elderly gentleman stirred his tea and winked at the curious American tourist next to him. “Secret to good eyesight at my age?” he chuckled, “Bilberries. Grew up eating them every day.” Turns out, he wasn’t just sharing folklore — modern science is beginning to catch up with centuries-old wisdom. Let’s dive into what bilberries are, and why they might be a game-changer for your eye health and circulation.

What Are Bilberries?

Bilberries (Vaccinium myrtillus), often referred to as the European cousins of North American blueberries, are native to northern Europe. Smaller, darker, and richer in anthocyanins — the antioxidants responsible for their deep purple hue — bilberries have a long-standing reputation in traditional medicine for promoting vision and vascular health.

Key Benefits of Bilberry Supplements

1. Improving Night Vision

Studies, especially from World War II, suggested that RAF pilots who consumed bilberry jam experienced better night vision. While those claims are still under scrutiny, modern research supports bilberry’s potential in improving retinal health and aiding dark adaptation.

2. Support for Dry Eyes

A clinical trial showed that supplementation with bilberry extract helped reduce dry eye symptoms, improving tear secretion and eye comfort — especially useful in our screen-heavy lifestyle.

3. Antioxidant Power for Inflammation

Bilberries are high in anthocyanins, which reduce oxidative stress and lower inflammatory markers in the body. This antioxidant action supports both eye and cardiovascular health, including in people with type 2 diabetes.

4. Circulation and Blood Pressure

Improved circulation is another studied benefit. Bilberry extract can support blood vessel health, leading to better blood pressure regulation and reducing risks linked to poor vascular flow.

How Does Bilberry Compare to Other Eye Supplements?

While lutein and zeaxanthin are household names in the world of eye care, bilberry stands out due to its strong vascular effects. Combined formulas — such as those with vitamin C, zinc, or ginkgo biloba — amplify the protective benefits for the retina and optic nerve.

Dosage and Side Effects

Typical dosages range from 80 to 160 mg of bilberry extract, taken up to three times a day. While bilberries are generally well-tolerated, high doses may cause mild digestive upset. Consult a healthcare professional, especially if you are on blood thinners or managing blood sugar levels.

Who Should Consider Bilberry Supplements?

• Older adults looking to maintain vision

• Office workers suffering from digital eye strain

• People with circulatory issues or a family history of eye disorders

• Individuals with type 2 diabetes seeking to improve eye and capillary health

Why NOW® Foods Bilberry Complex?

The NOW Foods Bilberry Complex offers a potent, standardized extract sourced from fresh bilberries — not just dried fruit powder. It’s a trusted option for those serious about eye and vascular support.

Final Thoughts

From ancient forest remedies to modern nutrition science, bilberries have stood the test of time. Whether you're squinting at a spreadsheet or soaking in scenic views, adding bilberry to your routine might just help keep your world in sharper focus.

🔗 Related Product:
Discover the full benefits of NOW Foods Bilberry Complex — a powerful supplement for vision and circulation support.