Eye Health
The active ingredients in bilberry are called anthocyanosides. Bilberry is best known for its benefits to visual health because its anthocyanosides improve the delivery of oxygen and nutrients to the eye. This delivery can be impeded by aging; many eye diseases begin with free-radical damage that accompanies aging. During WWII, pilots reported improved night vision after eating bilberries. Studies since then have confirmed that bilberry extract can improve night vision, day vision, and recovery from glare in healthy subjects. In one study, anthocyanidin supplements increased levels of the pigment rhodopsin, which is crucial to eyesight, in as little as 20 minutes. Another study showed that bilberry increased blood supply to the eye and improved eyesight in 75 percent of patients; an average 83 percent improvement in vision occurred after only 15 days and nearsightedness was improved after only five months of regular use. Other studies have suggested that bilberry supplements may offer significant protection against cataract formation, macular degeneration, and diabetic retinopathy.

Blood Sugar Support
Anthocyanosides have been shown to strengthen connective tissue, prevent free-radical damage, and inhibit the synthesis and release of many pro- inflammatory compounds. Historically, bilberry was used to treat diabetes. Studies show that it strengthens blood vessels that have become fragile, a common problem among diabetics and a factor in diabetic retinopathy (loss of vision related to diabetes.)

Other Important Points about SISU Bilberry and Eye Health
• The Age-Related Eye Disease Study (AREDS) followed 5000 men and women between 55 and 80 years for five years during the 1990s to see if high-dose antioxidants and/or zinc could reduce the risk of Age-related Macular Degeneration (AMD: the leading cause of blindness) and cataract. People at risk of AMD lowered their risk by up to 25 percent by taking antioxidants and zinc. (There was no effect on cataract.) Although AREDS did not look at plant-based antioxidants, evidence of their role in eye health suggests they may be useful in preventing age-related eye disease.

• A high death rate among AREDS participants with AMD and cataract suggests that age-related eye diseases reflect larger health problems, which may also be addressed with high-quality antioxidant supplements.

• No adverse effects have been observed as a result of taking bilberry extract supplements, even at dosages of up to 400 mg per kg of body weight.


Suggested Use: Take 1 - 2 capsules daily.

Each gelatin capsule contains:

Bilberry 100:1 fruit extract......100 mg
standardized to contain 25% anthocyanosides