Wild berries are the true wonders of the forest. Sweet, healthy, and delicious, berries are a mainstay of the Nordic diet. While blueberries have received the most attention due to their nutritional benefits, little is known about the forest's hidden treasure: lingonberries.
A number of recent studies have shed new light on the extraordinary benefits of consuming what can realistically be termed a super-berry.
A Gift from the Dense Nordic Forest
Lingonberries are small, red berries commonly found in the forests and tundra regions of the Northern Hemisphere. They have a tart, slightly sweet flavour and are rich in vitamins C and A, fiber, and other antioxidants. In Nordic cuisine, lingonberry sauce is often served with wild meat dishes.
Lingonberries are also rich in antioxidants crucial for protecting our cells from damage caused by free radicals. This oxidative stress is linked to chronic diseases such as diabetes and heart disease. Furthermore, 100 g (one serving) of lingonberries provides 12% of the RDI for vitamin C, promoting overall health and longevity.
Benefits Backed by Solid Research
A study from 2015 revealed that lingonberries significantly reduce inflammation and prevent liver damage associated with obesity. The research showed that these berries downregulate genes linked to inflammation that decreases hepatic steatosis and improves liver function in mice on a high-fat diet.
Besides liver health, lingonberries have also been found to enhance cognitive function and support gut health. A 2022 study demonstrated that these berries improve cognitive performance and positively influence gut microbiota composition in mice fed a high-fat diet.
Yet another study published in 2023 concluded that a mixture of Nordic berries, including lingonberries, can significantly enhance cognitive and metabolic functions. The research emphasized the crucial role of lingonberries in facilitating a balanced microbiome, which in turn supports better brain and metabolic health.
A Must-Have for the Health-Conscious
As evidenced by a growing body of research, lingonberries provide multifaceted benefits — from reducing inflammation and supporting liver health to enhancing cognitive functions and optimizing metabolic processes. While most of the research has been conducted on mice, a groundbreaking human study on lingonberries is set to be published in the coming months — promising to confirm the previous findings.
As we continue to look for natural ways to improve our health and wellness, lingonberries have the potential to be the next "big thing" in the life-enhancing world of superfoods.