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Blueberry Leaf & Diabetes

Blueberries are not just tasty pieces of fruit that go into muffins and pies. These tiny berries pack a powerful punch when it comes to its health benefits. Blueberries are high in Vitamin C, and they are a good source of dietary fiber. They are also high in manganese and come loaded with antioxidants. Research shows that not only is the blueberry itself healthy, but its leaves are healthy, too.

  1. Blueberries And Blood Sugar

    • Blueberry leaves have been shown to lower blood sugar when consumed on a daily basis. Blueberry leaves have also been shown to reduce inflammation and lower triglyceride levels in the blood. Research has shown that several cups of blueberry leaves are enough to bring glucose levels back to normal. It has also shown promise in preventing diabetes.

    Treating Diabetes

    • Blueberry leaves contain a compound that suppresses the enzyme that regulates glucose in our bodies. This compound is known as caffeoylquinic acid. It inhibits an enzyme known as glucose-6-phosphatase. When the enzyme is suppressed, less glucose is converted, which means less of it is left in the blood stream.

    Interactions and Warnings

    • Blueberries and blueberry leaves are considered safe and have no documented drug interactions. Blueberry leaf tea is considered a home remedy to treat diarrhea, but too much of it actually works as a laxative. Women who are pregnant or nursing should consult their doctor before taking blueberry leaf. Because blueberries and blueberry leaves are known to reduce glucose levels, diabetics should monitor their sugar levels closely, as too much of a drop could cause dangerously low sugar. It is recommended that people having surgery stop using blueberry leaf two weeks before their procedure. It is also suggested that people taking blueberry leaf inform their doctor they are doing so, as some of their medications may need to be adjusted.

    Forms of Blueberry Leaf

    • Blueberry leaf traditionally comes in tea form, which is the most popular method of use. Blueberry leaf extract can be purchased in capsule and liquid form. The liquid is taken as a dietary supplement by mixing it with water. It is not recommended that the leaves be eaten raw, as there is little research into the health benefits or side effects of doing so.

    Oher Benefits

    • Blueberry leaf also helps to relieve internal inflammation, which is linked to cardiovascular disease. The antioxidants contained in blueberry leaves can also prevent damage done by diabetes. Stopping the damage done to the blood vessels leading to the retina is one such example. Research also suggests blueberry leaf may protect the brain against mental illnesses, as well as Alzheimer's disease, and damage caused by stroke.

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