Lingonberry

Lingonberry

• What Is It and How Does It Work in the Body?

  • Lingonberry is from the berry family and it is found in Central Europe, Russia, and Canada. Lingonberry is classified as a "superfruit" as it is rich in antioxidants and polyphenols. In terms of how it works in the body, the lingonberry can decrease oxidants in the body, induce cell apoptosis and cancer cell proliferation, decrease cytokines, and decrease markers of inflammation.

• What Is It Used for and at What Dosage?

  • Lingonberry is used for its antioxidant properties, anticancer activity, neuroprotection, anti-obesity, and anti-inflammatory properties. For antioxidant benefit, studies have shown that fresh and dried lingonberry consumed throughout the whole year can significantly reduce oxidants. One study found that dried lingonberry has greater antioxidant ability than its fresh counterpart. At different doses, lingonberry can have different uses. At small doses of 1-5 mg/mL, lingonberry can decrease oxidative stress and increase adiponectin. At medium doses of freeze-dried lingonberry for 13 weeks, for example, it can decrease body fat and hepatic lipid and ALT levels. In terms of neuroprotection, lingonberry extract of 1 mL can protect cells from injury.

• Evidence for or Against Its Different Uses (Broken Down by evidence for Each Use):

  • In its main use as an antioxidant, several studies have been performed to measure this. Drozdz et al. found that blueberries exhibited higher antioxidant activity.

  • However, the authors concluded that both would be a good source of supplementation. In animal models, it has been found that lingonberries can reduce tumor number and size. It has been seen however, consumption of the lingonberry is more helpful if consumed for longer as part of a lifestyle instead of for a limited time.

• Safety Concerns, Side Effects, and Precautions:

  • Studies on Lingonberry have not been performed on pregnant individuals and thus should be avoided. Due to high tannins, lingonberry may cause nausea and vomiting in some individuals.

• Interactions with Medications:

  • Currently, there is no evidence of studies performed on interactions with other medications.