Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2

Blueberry (unspecified species) has traditionally been associated with eye health, largely due to anecdotal accounts and historical practices, especially in Europe. One of the most persistent stories is that British Royal Air Force pilots during World War II consumed bilberry (a close relative of blueberry) jam to improve their night vision, although this widely circulated account has been debated and lacks robust documentation. The traditional use stems from the presence of anthocyanins—antioxidant compounds found in high concentrations in blueberries and related berries—which have been hypothesized to support retinal health and reduce eye strain.

However, while animal and in vitro studies have indicated that anthocyanins may have protective effects on eye tissues, human clinical evidence is limited and inconsistent. Most research has focused on bilberry (Vaccinium myrtillus), and not on the common blueberry (Vaccinium corymbosum), and even for bilberry, results are mixed and often based on small, methodologically weak studies. There is a lack of high-quality, large-scale clinical trials confirming that blueberry consumption directly improves vision or prevents eye diseases. Thus, while traditional and historical use is documented, robust scientific validation is lacking.

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