Bilberries and blueberries as potential modulators of type 2 diabetes and associated diseases

Abstract

Abstract Bilberries and blueberries are represented by various species of the genus Vaccinum in the plant family of Ericaceae. Powered by their polyphenol composition which is largely dominated by anthocyanins, the numerous health benefits of these fruits including for treating type 2 diabetes (T2D) and associated diseases have been advocated in recent years. This chapter examines, the botany, chemistry, pharmacokinetics profile and pharmacology of these plants. From the color of the fruits to the biologically active principles, the chemistry of bilberries and blueberries that attribute to hypoglycemic, antiobesity and lipid lowering effects are presented. In vitro, animal models and human clinical trials that relate to their health benefits in diabetes pathologies including hypertension and retinopathy are scrutinized. As with the mechanistic-based lines of evidences in favor of their health claims, controversies that arose from numerous experimental variables are discussed.