“These superfoods are particularly rich in anthocyanins, the particular compounds responsible for the rich blue pigment you see in bilberries,” says Johnson. “Anthocyanidins are considered to be anticarcinogenic and anti-inflammatory, and play important roles in prevention and management of cardiovascular disease, cancer, neurodegenerative decline, glycemic control, and eye health.” 

Jones adds that because anthocyanins and other polyphenols are supportive of healthy inflammatory responses, bilberries may help manage inflammation. “Poor inflammatory responses impact the heart, cognition, and mood, muscular function and recovery from exercise, nutrient metabolism and immune system function,” she says, “so in theory, bilberries could indirectly support all of those functions.”