Synopsis

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

Blueberries are sometimes explored as a supportive strategy during chemotherapy, primarily due to their high content of antioxidants such as anthocyanins, vitamin C, and other polyphenols. These compounds are believed to help neutralize free radicals and reduce oxidative stress, which can be elevated during chemotherapy and contribute to some of its side effects, such as fatigue, inflammation, and tissue damage. Some preclinical (animal and in vitro) studies suggest that blueberry extracts may reduce chemotherapy-induced oxidative damage and inflammation. Additionally, blueberries may help support immune function, which can be compromised during cancer treatment.

However, the clinical evidence in humans remains limited. There are a few small pilot studies and observational reports indicating that increased intake of antioxidant-rich foods, including blueberries, may help improve quality of life or reduce certain side effects (like mucositis or fatigue) in people undergoing chemotherapy, but these studies are not robust, and results are inconsistent. Furthermore, oncologists sometimes caution against high doses of antioxidant supplements, as there is concern that they could interfere with the effectiveness of some chemotherapeutic agents by protecting cancer cells as well as healthy cells.

In summary, while there is some scientific rationale and limited early evidence to support the use of blueberries to help reduce chemotherapy side effects, the evidence is not strong or conclusive (rating 2/5), and they should not be used as a replacement for conventional supportive care. Always consult a healthcare provider before making dietary changes during cancer treatment.

More about blueberry
More about Chemotherapy (reducing side effects)

Other ingredients used for Chemotherapy (reducing side effects)

Other health conditions supported by blueberry

Products containing blueberry

Pure Encapsulations Açai 600
Pure Encapsulations CogniMag
Pure Encapsulations CurcumaSorb Mind
Designs For Health EssentiaGreens™
Douglas Laboratories Juvenon Pro Cognitive
Klean Athlete Klean Focus®
Klean Athlete Klean Multivitamin ™
Vitabase Life's Essentials Plus
Douglas Laboratories Liquid Multivitamin
Metagenics MetaKids Multi Soft Chew Grape
Douglas Laboratories Optimized Curcumin With Neurophenol™
Thorne Ovarian Care
Designs For Health PaleoGreens®
Designs For Health PaleoGreens®
Designs For Health PaleoReds®
Designs For Health PhytoBiome™
Metagenics PhytoGanix® Tropical Fruit
Metagenics PhytoMulti™ Multivitamin
Metagenics PhytoMulti With Iron
Metagenics PhytoMulti Without Iron
Metagenics PhytoMultivitamin
Pure Encapsulations Poly-Prebiotic Powder
Pure Encapsulations Polyphenol Nutrients
Pure Encapsulations Polyphenol Nutrients
Designs For Health Primal Multi™
Pure Encapsulations PS Plus
Pure Encapsulations PureLean® Protein
Pure Encapsulations RevitalAge™ Ultra
Douglas Laboratories Ultra Preventive
Douglas Laboratories Ultra Preventive
Douglas Laboratories Ultra Preventive ® 2 Daily
Douglas Laboratories Ultra Preventive ®-EZ Swallow
Douglas Laboratories Ultra Preventive® X
Douglas Laboratories Ultra Protein Green
Metagenics UltraMeal® Daily Support Dutch Chocolate
Metagenics UltraMeal Daily Support Mixed Berry
Metagenics Wellness Essentials Active Daily Packs
Metagenics Wellness Essentials Brain Health Daily Packs
Metagenics Wellness Essentials® Daily Packs
Metagenics Wellness Essentials Healthy Balance Daily Packs
Metagenics Wellness Essentials Men's Vitality Daily Packs
Metagenics Wellness Essentials Women's Daily Packs
Metagenics Wellness Essentials Women's Prime Daily Packs