NICEVIVA
MONOGRAPH SPEC LATEST 2025

Blueberry Extract

BOTANICALS · Evidence Monograph

Blueberry Extract is an evidence-graded botanicals monograph evaluated across 15 peer-reviewed PubMed studies (0 meta-analyses, 1 systematic reviews, and 5 randomized controlled trials, encompassing n = 891 cumulative participants). Current clinical evidence is rated GRADE Moderate (3.0 / 4.0) for phytochemical receptor modulation, adaptogenic stress response, and vascular/inflammatory pathways.

Evidence Grade (GRADE) Moderate (3.0 / 4.0)
Indexed PubMed Studies 15 Studies
Meta-Analyses · Reviews 0 Meta · 1 Systematic Reviews
Randomized Trials (RCT) 5 RCTs (4 Double-Blind)
Cumulative Participants n = 891
Reported Trial Dosages 222 mg · 111 mg · 444 mg
Trial Duration Range 28 days · 12 weeks · 17 days
Reading Time ~8 min
RECOMMENDED FOR Clinical Indication

Evidence Supports Supplementation When:

  1. 01 Individuals seeking evidence-backed support for phytochemical receptor modulation, adaptogenic stress response, and vascular/inflammatory pathways (supported by 15 indexed PubMed studies, GRADE Moderate).
  2. 02 Adults matching clinical trial dosing protocols (222 mg · 111 mg · 444 mg) over a structured 28 days evaluation window.
  3. 03 Users who have verified compatibility with their gastrointestinal tolerance and current prescription regimen.
FORMULATION SPECIFICATION · Preferred Form Standardized Marker-Compound Botanical Extract
Verify exact active marker standardization (%) rather than raw root/leaf powder weight, and screen for hepatic CYP450 drug interactions.
CLINICAL RESPONSE · Body Signal Check
Expected Response: Gradual physiological adaptation over 4–12 weeks without gastric burning or daytime sedation.
Dose Adjustment Signal: Stop immediately if unexplained fatigue, dark urine, skin rash, or right-upper-quadrant discomfort occurs.
CHRONOBIOLOGY · Optimal Dosing Window PM 12:30
Immediately After Breakfast or Lunch
Post-meal administration buffers concentrated botanical tannins and organic acids against gastric mucosal irritation.
Primary Clinical Endpoints & Physiological Biomarkers Studied Based on Indexed PubMed Trials
Primary botanicals clinical efficacy (15 PubMed studies)
Quantitative biomarker & outcome analysis (9 studies with effect-size/sample data)
Randomized controlled trial verification (5 RCTs · 4 double-blind)
Systematic review & meta-analysis synthesis (0 meta-analyses · 1 reviews)
01

What Is Blueberry Extract & Why Does Form Matter?

Blueberry Extract is classified under BOTANICALS and has been investigated across 15 peer-reviewed PubMed publications for its role in phytochemical receptor modulation, adaptogenic stress response, and vascular/inflammatory pathways.

In clinical nutrition, physiological efficacy depends heavily on the specific chemical salt, chelate, or standardized extract used, as well as adherence to trial-validated dosing (222 mg, 111 mg, 444 mg).

02

Who Benefits Most & Common Depletion Factors

Suboptimal status or increased physiological demand for Blueberry Extract frequently arises from restrictive dietary patterns, age-related declines in gastrointestinal absorption, chronic metabolic stress, or medication-induced nutrient depletion.

Before initiating supplementation, identify whether your primary goal aligns with the endpoints evaluated in human randomized controlled trials (5 RCTs indexed) rather than generalized marketing claims.

03

Physiological Mechanism of Action

Within human physiology, Blueberry Extract acts on pathways governing phytochemical receptor modulation, adaptogenic stress response, and vascular/inflammatory pathways. Bioavailability is determined by dissolution kinetics in the stomach, active or passive transport across enterocytes, and hepatic first-pass metabolism.

Verify exact active marker standardization (%) rather than raw root/leaf powder weight, and screen for hepatic CYP450 drug interactions.

04

PubMed Clinical Evidence & GRADE Evaluation

NICEVIVA assigns Blueberry Extract an overall evidence rating of GRADE Moderate (3.0 / 4.0) based on 15 PubMed studies: 0 meta-analyses, 1 systematic reviews, and 5 randomized controlled trials (4 double-blind, n = 891 total participants).

Representative peer-reviewed findings include: • PMID:40635529 (2025) — "A Randomized, Investigator-Blinded, Split-Face, Controlled Trial Evaluating the Efficacy and Satisfaction of a Topical Product Containing Blueberry Extract and Pro-Xylane Combined With Micro-Focused Ultrasound for Anti-aging." (cream following MFUS treatment improved skin elasticity, dermal thickness, fine lines, and patient/dermatologist satisfaction.) • PMID:40537085 (2025) — "Effects of a Blend of Trisodium Citrate, Creatine Monohydrate, Leucine, and Blueberry Extract on Training-Induced Changes in Leg Extension Strength, Endurance, and Muscle Size." (Furthermore, the groups did not differ in the training-induced increases in leg extension strength and endurance.) • PMID:38674870 (2024) — "Wild Blueberry Extract Intervention in Healthy Older Adults: A Multi-Study, Randomised, Controlled Investigation of Acute Cognitive and Cardiovascular Effects." (RESULTS: ROAB: A significant dip in executive fu)

05

Formulation Selection, Dosing & Chronobiology

Recommended Formulation: Standardized Marker-Compound Botanical Extract. Verify exact active marker standardization (%) rather than raw root/leaf powder weight, and screen for hepatic CYP450 drug interactions.

Clinical Trial Dosing & Timing: Published studies most commonly utilize 222 mg · 111 mg · 444 mg · 9.8 mg over 28 days · 12 weeks · 17 days · 6 weeks. Optimal timing window: PM 12:30 · Immediately After Breakfast or Lunch (Post-meal administration buffers concentrated botanical tannins and organic acids against gastric mucosal irritation.).

06

Body Response Monitoring & Dose Adjustment

Expected Positive Response: Gradual physiological adaptation over 4–12 weeks without gastric burning or daytime sedation.

Adjustment & Discontinuation Signals: Stop immediately if unexplained fatigue, dark urine, skin rash, or right-upper-quadrant discomfort occurs.

07

Prescription Drug Interactions & Contraindications

No major high-risk prescription contraindications are flagged in the primary index for Blueberry Extract, but divalent minerals, fat-soluble compounds, and botanical extracts can still alter absorption or CYP450 metabolism of concurrent medications.

Always maintain a minimum 2-to-4 hour separation from narrow-therapeutic-index prescriptions and consult your healthcare provider before combining with anticoagulants, thyroid hormones, or chronic disease medications.

08

4 Essential Safety Rules Before & After Dosing

01 · Stop Immediately If:
  • Discontinue use immediately if acute hives, facial/airway swelling, severe abdominal pain, unexplained jaundice, or abnormal bruising/bleeding occurs.
  • Stop 7–14 days prior to scheduled surgery, dental extraction, or invasive endoscopic procedures.
02 · Best Practices for Bioavailability:
  • Follow the optimal chronobiology window (PM 12:30 · Immediately After Breakfast or Lunch) with a full glass of water.
  • Stay within clinically studied daily dosages (222 mg · 111 mg · 444 mg) and re-evaluate efficacy after 28 days.
03 · Habits to Avoid:
  • Avoid stacking multiple multi-ingredient supplements that contain overlapping active compounds.
  • Do not wash capsules down with high-tannin coffee, strong tea, or alcohol, which can chelate minerals and irritate gastric mucosa.
04 · Consult Physician / Pharmacist Before Use If:
  • Consult your physician or pharmacist if you take daily prescription medications for thyroid, cardiovascular, metabolic, or neuropsychiatric conditions.
  • Seek professional medical guidance if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or managing chronic kidney or liver disease.
09 · PUBMED CLINICAL STUDIES

Indexed PubMed Clinical Studies & Abstracts (15 Studies) · 9 Quantitative Analyses

01
RANDOMIZED TRIAL (RCT) Journal of cosmetic dermatology (2025) PMID: 40635529 ↗
A Randomized, Investigator-Blinded, Split-Face, Controlled Trial Evaluating the Efficacy and Satisfaction of a Topical Product Containing Blueberry Extract and Pro-Xylane Combined With Micro-Focused Ultrasound for Anti-aging.
Clinical Trial Synthesis 2025 Randomized Controlled Trial (RCT) published in Journal of cosmetic dermatology involving n = 50 participants; statistical significance reported at p = 0.001. Key conclusion: cream following MFUS treatment improved skin elasticity, dermal thickness, fine lines, and patient/dermatologist satisfaction.
View Original PubMed Abstract ↓

BACKGROUND: Micro-focused ultrasound (MFUS) has been effective in treating skin aging, which manifests as skin thinning, reduced elasticity, wrinkling, etc. AIMS: This study aims to evaluate the efficacy and satisfaction of combining a product containing blueberry extract and Pro-xylane (A.G.E. cream) with MFUS in antiaging effects in the Chinese population. METHODS: In this randomized, investigator-blinded, controlled trial, patients aged 18-65 with skin roughness, sagging, laxity, or fine lines/wrinkles were enrolled. After MFUS, one side of patients' faces was randomly assigned to apply the A.G.E. cream and the other side with the standard moisturizer. Patients were followed up for 180 days. The primary endpoint was the Global Aesthetic Improvement Scale (GAIS). Secondary endpoints included percentage changes from baseline in fine lines, skin elasticity, dermal thickness, and transepidermal water loss. Patient and dermatologist satisfaction was evaluated using a questionnaire. RESULTS: A total of 50 patients were included in the study, with 49 (98%) being female. The mean ± SD age was 33.7 ± 6.4 years. For the primary endpoint, the intervention side demonstrated significant improvement in GAIS compared to the control side on Day 90 (p < 0.001). For secondary endpoints, the A.G.E. cream use after MFUS significantly improved skin elasticity at the cheeks and mouth corners on multiple follow-up days and improved fine lines at the mouth corners on Day 180. Patients and dermatologists reported higher satisfaction levels with the aesthetic outcomes of the intervention side. CONCLUSIONS: The application of the A.G.E. cream following MFUS treatment improved skin elasticity, dermal thickness, fine lines, and patient/dermatologist satisfaction. TRIAL REGISTRATION: ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT05748470. © 2025 The Author(s). Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology published by Wiley Periodicals LLC.

02
CLINICAL STUDY Journal of dietary supplements (2025) PMID: 40537085 ↗
Effects of a Blend of Trisodium Citrate, Creatine Monohydrate, Leucine, and Blueberry Extract on Training-Induced Changes in Leg Extension Strength, Endurance, and Muscle Size.
Clinical Trial Synthesis 2025 Clinical Study published in Journal of dietary supplements involving n = 10 participants; statistical significance reported at p = 0.05. Key conclusion: Furthermore, the groups did not differ in the training-induced increases in leg extension strength and endurance.
View Original PubMed Abstract ↓

Although creatine monohydrate (CM), leucine, and polyphenols have been independently researched, there is a lack of research on the effects of a supplementation blend containing trisodium citrate, CM, leucine, and blueberry extract (TCLB) on muscle strength, endurance, and size. This study compared the effects of 8 wk of supplementation with TCLB versus CM and placebo (PLA) combined with resistance training on leg extension strength, endurance, and muscle size. Twenty-eight recreationally active men ingested either TCLB (n = 10), CM (n = 10), or PLA (n = 8) during 8 wk of resistance training. Leg extension 1-repetition maximum (1RM), leg extension repetitions-to-failure at ∼80% of pre-training 1RM, individual quadriceps cross-sectional area (CSA) values, and the sum of the CSA values (CSAsum) were assessed at pre-training and post-training. Separate one-way ANCOVAs covaried for pre-training values were used to analyze differences in adjusted post-training means. Separate Chi-squared tests were used to analyze differences between groups in the proportion of subjects that exceeded the minimal important difference (MID). There were no group differences (p > 0.05) for leg extension 1RM, leg extension repetitions-to-failure, rectus femoris CSA, vastus lateralis CSA, or vastus medialis CSA. The TCLB group demonstrated greater (p ≤ 0.05) adjusted post-training means and proportions of subjects who exceeded the MID for the CSAsum and vastus intermedius CSA than the PLA group, but the TCLB group did not differ (p > 0.05) from the CM group for those variables. The CM group (p ≤ 0.05) exhibited a greater proportion of subjects who exceeded the MID for the CSAsum than the PLA group. These findings indicated that 8 wk of supplementation with TCLB and CM combined with resistance training increased the overall quadriceps muscle size greater than the PLA, but TCLB did not differ from CM. Furthermore, the groups did not differ in the training-induced increases in leg extension strength and endurance.

03
RANDOMIZED TRIAL (RCT) Nutrients (2024) PMID: 38674870 ↗
Wild Blueberry Extract Intervention in Healthy Older Adults: A Multi-Study, Randomised, Controlled Investigation of Acute Cognitive and Cardiovascular Effects.
Clinical Trial Synthesis 2024 Randomized Controlled Trial (RCT) published in Nutrients involving n = 28 participants. Key conclusion: RESULTS: ROAB: A significant dip in executive fu
View Original PubMed Abstract ↓

BACKGROUND: Circadian and homeostatic declines in cognitive performance are observed during the day, most commonly at 14:00. Additionally, postprandial reductions in cognitive ability have been widely demonstrated 1 h after lunch consumption, affecting domains of executive functioning (EF), episodic memory (EM), and attention. Existing evidence shows that anthocyanin-rich foods such as berries may improve or attenuate the decline in EF and EM in ageing adults. Further research is required to assess whether extracts such as wild blueberry extract (WBE) may be beneficial for cognitive function across an acute timeframe, including known periods of reduced functioning. OBJECTIVES: (1) Study 1: ROAB: To investigate the efficacy of WBE in maintaining EF and EM throughout the day alongside measures of cardiovascular outcomes in healthy older adults. A range of WBE doses were utilised to identify the optimal dose at which cognitive and cardiovascular effects occur. (2) Study 2: BEAT: To replicate alleviation of cognitive decline during a predicted post-lunch dip whilst also improving cardiovascular outcomes following acute WBE 222 mg supplementation. METHODS: Both studies employed a randomised, double-blind, cross-over, placebo-controlled design to explore the effects of WBE intervention versus placebo on several outcomes, including EM, EF, blood pressure, and heart rate in a healthy older adult population (aged 68-75). In ROAB, 28 participants received a single dose of WBE 111 mg, 222 mg, 444 mg, or 888 mg or placebo over a 5-week period, each separated by a 1-week washout. Outcomes were measured at 0 h, 2 h, 4 h, and 6 h post intervention, with intervention occurring immediately after baseline (0 h). In BEAT, 45 participants received WBE 222 mg and placebo (1-week washout). Outcomes were measured at 0 h and 6 h (14:00) when a post-lunch dip was anticipated. This was further enhanced by consumption of lunch 1 h prior to cognitive testing. The WBE 222 mg intervention aligned with known peaks in plasma blueberry polyphenol metabolites at 2 h post dosing, which would coincide with a predicted drop in post-lunch performance. RESULTS: ROAB: A significant dip in executive fu

04
CLINICAL STUDY PloS one (2023) PMID: 37200261 ↗
Dual protective effect of the association of plant extracts and fluoride against dentine erosion: In the presence and absence of salivary pellicle.
Clinical Trial Synthesis 2023 Clinical Study published in PloS one involving n = 270 participants; statistical significance reported at p = 0.05. Key conclusion: CONCLUSION: We can conclude that the plant extracts showed a protective effect against dentine erosion, regardless of the presence of salivary pellicle, and that the fluoride seems to improve their protection.
View Original PubMed Abstract ↓

OBJECTIVES: To verify the protective effect of plant extracts associated with fluoride against dental erosion of dentine, in the presence and absence of a salivary pellicle. METHODS: Dentine specimens (n = 270) were randomly distributed into 9 experimental groups (n = 30/group): GT (green tea extract); BE (blueberry extract); GSE (grape seed extract); NaF (sodium fluoride); GT+NaF (green tea extract and NaF); BE+NaF (blueberry extract and NaF); GSE+NaF (grape seed extract and NaF); negative control (deionized water); and a positive control (commercialized mouthrinse containing stannous and fluoride). Each group was further divided into two subgroups (n = 15), according to the presence (P) or absence (NP) of salivary pellicle. The specimens were submitted to 10 cycles: 30 min incubation in human saliva (P) or only in humid chamber (NP), 2 min immersion in experimental solutions, 60 min of incubation in saliva (P) or not (NP), and 1 min erosive challenge. Dentine surface loss (dSL-10 and dSL-total), amount of degraded collagen (dColl) and total calcium release (CaR) were evaluated. Data were analyzed with Kruskal-Wallis, Dunn's and Mann-Whitney U tests (p>0.05). RESULTS: Overall, the negative control presented the highest values of dSL, dColl and CaR, and the plant extracts showed different degrees of dentine protection. For the subgroup NP, GSE showed the best protection of the extracts, and the presence of fluoride generally further improved the protection for all extracts. For the subgroup P, only BE provided protection, while the presence of fluoride had no impact on dSL and dColl, but lowered CaR. The protection of the positive control was more evident on CaR than on dColl. CONCLUSION: We can conclude that the plant extracts showed a protective effect against dentine erosion, regardless of the presence of salivary pellicle, and that the fluoride seems to improve their protection. Copyright: © 2023 Niemeyer et al. This is an open access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original author and source are credited.

05
CLINICAL STUDY Scientific reports (2023) PMID: 37130893 ↗
Plant extracts have dual mechanism on the protection against dentine erosion: action on the dentine substrate and modification of the salivary pellicle.
Clinical Trial Synthesis 2023 Clinical Study published in Scientific reports involving n = 180 participants. Key conclusion: We further elucidate the mechanism of action of different active ingredients on dentine erosion, where Sn2+/F- acts better on the dentine surface, but plant extracts have a dual mode of action, acting on the dentine itself as well as on the salivary pellicle, improving the protec
View Original PubMed Abstract ↓

To investigate the effect of some polyphenol-rich plant extracts on the protection of dentine against demineralization, both acting on the dentine and on the salivary pellicle. Dentine specimens (n = 180) were randomly distributed into 6 experimental groups (n = 30/group): Control (deionized water), Açaí extract, Blueberry extract, Green tea extract, Grape seed extract, and Sn2+/F- (mouthrinse containing stannous and fluoride). Each group was further divided into two subgroups (n = 15), according to the site of action of the substance: on the dentine surface (D) or on the salivary pellicle (P). The specimens were submitted to 10 cycles: 30 min incubation in human saliva (P) or only in humid chamber (D), 2 min immersion in experimental substances, 60 min of incubation in saliva (P) or not (D), and 1 min erosive challenge. Dentine surface loss (DSL), amount of degraded collagen (dColl) and total calcium release were analyzed. Green tea, Grape seed and Sn2+/F- showed significant protection, with least DSL and dColl. The Sn2+/F- showed better protection on D than on P, whereas Green tea and Grape seed showed a dual mode of action, with good results on D, and even better on P. Sn2+/F- showed the lowest values of calcium release, not differing only from Grape seed. Sn2+/F- is more effective when acting directly on the dentine surface, while Green tea and Grape seed have a dual mode of action: with a positive effect on the dentine surface itself, but an improved efficacy in the presence of the salivary pellicle. We further elucidate the mechanism of action of different active ingredients on dentine erosion, where Sn2+/F- acts better on the dentine surface, but plant extracts have a dual mode of action, acting on the dentine itself as well as on the salivary pellicle, improving the protection against acid demineralization. © 2023. The Author(s).

06
CLINICAL STUDY Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition (2021) PMID: 34503541 ↗
The effects of phosphocreatine disodium salts plus blueberry extract supplementation on muscular strength, power, and endurance.
Clinical Trial Synthesis 2021 Clinical Study published in Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition; statistical significance reported at p = 0.05. Key conclusion: CONCLUSIONS: These findings indicated that for the group mean responses, 28 days of supplementation with both PCDSB and CM re
View Original PubMed Abstract ↓

BACKGROUND: Numerous studies have demonstrated the efficacy of creatine supplementation for improvements in exercise performance. Few studies, however, have examined the effects of phosphocreatine supplementation on exercise performance. Furthermore, while polyphenols have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, little is known regarding the influence of polyphenol supplementation on muscular strength, power, and endurance. Thus, the purpose of the present study was to compare the effects of 28 days of supplementation with phosphocreatine disodium salts plus blueberry extract (PCDSB), creatine monohydrate (CM), and placebo on measures of muscular strength, power, and endurance. METHODS: Thirty-three men were randomly assigned to consume either PCDSB, CM, or placebo for 28 days. Peak torque (PT), average power (AP), and percent decline for peak torque (PT%) and average power (AP%) were assessed from a fatigue test consisting of 50 maximal, unilateral, isokinetic leg extensions at 180°·s- 1 before and after the 28 days of supplementation. Individual responses were assessed to examine the proportion of subjects that exceeded a minimal important difference (MID). RESULTS: The results demonstrated significant (p < 0.05) improvements in PT for the PCDSB and CM groups from pre- (99.90 ± 22.47 N·m and 99.95 ± 22.50 N·m, respectively) to post-supplementation (119.22 ± 29.87 N·m and 111.97 ± 24.50 N·m, respectively), but no significant (p = 0.112) change for the placebo group. The PCDSB and CM groups also exhibited significant improvements in AP from pre- (140.18 ± 32.08 W and 143.42 ± 33.84 W, respectively) to post-supplementation (170.12 ± 42.68 W and 159.78 ± 31.20 W, respectively), but no significant (p = 0.279) change for the placebo group. A significantly (p < 0.05) greater proportion of subjects in the PCDSB group exceeded the MID for PT compared to the placebo group, but there were no significant (p > 0.05) differences in the proportion of subjects exceeding the MID between the CM and placebo groups or between the CM and PCDSB groups. CONCLUSIONS: These findings indicated that for the group mean responses, 28 days of supplementation with both PCDSB and CM re

07
CLINICAL STUDY Yakugaku zasshi (2008) PMID: 18758149 ↗
Physicochemical interactions of metformin hydrochloride and glibenclamide with several health foods.
Clinical Trial Synthesis 2008 Clinical Study published in Yakugaku zasshi. Key conclusion: Author information: (1)Department of Pharmaceutics, Faculty of Pharma
View Original PubMed Abstract ↓

7. Yakugaku Zasshi. 2008 Sep;128(9):1341-5. doi: 10.1248/yakushi.128.1341. Physicochemical interactions of metformin hydrochloride and glibenclamide with several health foods. Iwao K(1), Kawai RT, Oda M, Kobayashi M, Saitoh H. Author information: (1)Department of Pharmaceutics, Faculty of Pharma

08
SYSTEMATIC REVIEW Critical reviews in food science and nutrition (2019) PMID: 29345498 ↗
Effects of blueberry and cranberry consumption on type 2 diabetes glycemic control: A systematic review.
Clinical Trial Synthesis 2019 Systematic Review published in Critical reviews in food science and nutrition involving n = 270 participants. Key conclusion: Those results indicate a promising use of these berries in T2DM management; although more studies are required to better understand the mechanisms involved.
View Original PubMed Abstract ↓

The metabolic effects of cranberry and blueberry consumption on glycemic control have been evaluated in vitro and in animal models as well as in human studies, although findings have not been systematically reviewed yet. Therefore, a systematic review was carried out of relevant randomized clinical trials (RCTs) in order to assess the effect of berries (blueberry and cranberry) consumption on type 2 diabetes (T2DM) glycemic control. Some evidences were also discussed on the anti-diabetic mechanisms exerted by berries polyphenols. Studies were identified by searching electronic databases: LILACS, PubMed/MEDLINE, Scopus, The Cochrane Library and Web of Science. Three authors independently searched and extracted RCTs in which the effect of berries (cranberry or blueberry) consumption on T2DM glycemic control was assessed. A total of 7 RCTs, involving 270 adults with type 2 diabetes were included. Despite the heterogeneity of the administration forms (in natura, dried, extract, preparations - juice), dosage, duration of the intervention and type of population of the studies involving these two berries some studies highlight the potential benefit of berries, especially of blueberry, on glucose metabolism in T2DM subjects. Daily cranberry juice (240 mL) consumption for 12 weeks and blueberry extract or powder supplementation (9.1 to 9.8 mg of anthocyanins, respectively) for 8 to 12 weeks showed a beneficial effect on glucose control in T2DM subjects. Those results indicate a promising use of these berries in T2DM management; although more studies are required to better understand the mechanisms involved.

09
CLINICAL STUDY Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States of America (2017) PMID: 28289215 ↗
Selective dietary supplementation in early postpartum is associated with high resilience against depressed mood.
Clinical Trial Synthesis 2017 Clinical Study published in Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States of America involving n = 21 participants; statistical significance reported at p = 0.001. Key conclusion: The aim of this open-label study was to assess whether this dietary supplement reduces vulnerability to depressed mood at postpartum day 5, the typical peak of PPB.
View Original PubMed Abstract ↓

Medical research is moving toward prevention strategies during prodromal states. Postpartum blues (PPB) is often a prodromal state for postpartum depression (PPD), with severe PPB strongly associated with an elevated risk for PPD. The most common complication of childbearing, PPD has a prevalence of 13%, but there are no widespread prevention strategies, and no nutraceutical interventions have been developed. To counter the effects of the 40% increase in monoamine oxidase A (MAO-A) levels that occurs during PPB, a dietary supplement kit consisting of monoamine precursor amino acids and dietary antioxidants was created. Key ingredients (tryptophan and tyrosine) were shown not to affect their total concentration in breast milk. The aim of this open-label study was to assess whether this dietary supplement reduces vulnerability to depressed mood at postpartum day 5, the typical peak of PPB. Forty-one healthy women completed all study procedures. One group (n = 21) received the dietary supplement, composed of 2 g of tryptophan, 10 g of tyrosine, and blueberry juice with blueberry extract. The control group (n = 20) did not receive any supplement. PPB severity was quantitated by the elevation in depressed mood on a visual analog scale following the sad mood induction procedure (MIP). Following the MIP, there was a robust induction of depressed mood in the control group, but no effect in the supplement group [43.85 ± 18.98 mm vs. 0.05 ± 9.57 mm shift; effect size: 2.9; F(1,39) = 88.33, P < 0.001]. This dietary supplement designed to counter functions of elevated MAO-A activity eliminates vulnerability to depressed mood during the peak of PPB.

10
CLINICAL STUDY Phytotherapy research (2014) PMID: 25088029 ↗
The protective effects of a polyphenol-enriched protein powder on exercise-induced susceptibility to virus infection.
Clinical Trial Synthesis 2014 Clinical Study published in Phytotherapy research. Key conclusion: In addition, the serum of subjects who ingested PSPC significantly delayed an exercise-induced increase in virus replication.
View Original PubMed Abstract ↓

Prolonged and intensive exercise induces transient immunosuppression and is associated with an increased risk and severity of infections. The goal of this study was to characterize the antiviral and antibacterial properties of the bioactive metabolites of a blueberry-green tea-polyphenol soy protein complex (PSPC) in the serum of supplemented subjects during a 3-day intensified training period. Long-distance runners, randomly divided into two groups, ingested 40 g/day PSPC or placebo (soy protein and colorings) for 17 days, with a 3-day running period inserted at day 14. Blood serum samples were collected pre-14 days and post-14 days supplementation, and immediately and 14 h after the third day of running. The post-exercise serum from both groups significantly promoted the growth of Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus in culture by 20-70%, but returned to normal levels following recovery. Furthermore, the serum from subjects ingesting PSPC did not display antibacterial properties at any time point. In contrast, there was a significant difference in the ability of serum from PSPC-supplemented versus placebo-supplemented athletes to protect cells in culture from killing by vesicular stomatitis virus following strenuous exercise. In addition, the serum of subjects who ingested PSPC significantly delayed an exercise-induced increase in virus replication. These results indicate that polyphenol complexes containing blueberry and green tea have the potential to protect athletes from virus infections following rigorous exercise.

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