Bilberry dosage and safety
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Bilberry Dosage in Animal and Human Studies
Common Dosages Used in Animal Research
Several studies have explored the effects of bilberry extract and anthocyanins in animal models, with dosages typically ranging from 20 mg/kg to 200 mg/kg per day. For example, bilberry anthocyanin extract was administered at 200 mg/kg daily for 7–10 days in rats to assess kidney and reproductive protection, showing significant antioxidant and protective effects without reported adverse outcomes 12. Lower and medium doses, such as 20 mg/kg and 100 mg/kg per day, have also been used to support gut health and kidney protection, respectively, with beneficial results 346. In studies on eye health, dosages of 50, 100, and 200 mg/kg/day for 5 days were found to be effective and dose-dependent in reducing inflammation and oxidative stress in mice .
Dosages in Human Clinical Trials
In human studies, bilberry extract is often standardized and administered at lower absolute doses compared to animal studies. A 12-week clinical trial in adults used a daily dose of 240 mg of standardized bilberry extract, which improved eye muscle function related to screen use and was well tolerated . Another clinical trial in patients with type 2 diabetes used 1.4 g/day of bilberry extract for 4 weeks, with no significant adverse effects reported . These studies suggest that daily doses in the range of 240 mg to 1.4 g are commonly used in human supplementation and are generally considered safe.
Safety and Side Effects of Bilberry Supplementation
Animal Safety Data
Across multiple animal studies, bilberry extract and anthocyanins did not cause observable toxicity or negative health effects at doses up to 200 mg/kg per day for periods of up to 10 days 1234. In longer-term studies, such as 29 to 58 days of bilberry extract in drinking water, no adverse effects on general health, blood parameters, or organ function were observed in rats . However, one study noted that very high doses could alter gut microbiota in ways that may not always be beneficial, suggesting moderation is important .
Human Safety Data
Human clinical trials have not reported significant side effects with daily bilberry extract supplementation at doses up to 1.4 g for several weeks 910. Additionally, bilberry extract did not significantly affect drug-metabolizing enzymes in rats, suggesting a low risk of drug interactions . Reviews of clinical research indicate that bilberry is generally safe as a dietary supplement, though more large-scale, long-term studies are needed to confirm safety and optimal dosing .
Efficacy and Health Benefits at Studied Dosages
Bilberry extract and anthocyanins have shown protective effects against oxidative stress, inflammation, and tissue damage in animal models, particularly for kidney, reproductive, and eye health 1234. In humans, bilberry supplementation has been associated with improved eye function and a trend toward better glycemic control, though results for other health claims remain inconsistent and require further research 8910.
Conclusion
Bilberry extract is commonly used in animal studies at doses of 20–200 mg/kg per day and in human studies at 240 mg to 1.4 g per day. These dosages have demonstrated safety and beneficial effects in both animals and humans, with no significant adverse effects reported in the short term. However, extremely high doses may affect gut microbiota balance, and more robust clinical trials are needed to establish long-term safety and optimal dosing for specific health outcomes 12345689+1 MORE.
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