Berries have long been recognized as valuable allies for our health, celebrated especially for their high antioxidant potential.
However, scientific research continues to reveal new and specific benefits associated with their consumption. A recent study has shed light on one standout in this category: the blueberry (Vaccinium myrtillus), showing how its bioactive compounds can play a crucial role in protecting bone health—an area of growing interest for long-term well-being.
Oxidative stress and bones: a connection not to underestimate
Oxidative stress is a condition that occurs when our body experiences a harmful imbalance; this phenomenon is often linked to dysregulated bone turnover and chronic bone mass loss.
At the core of this process are osteocytes, the main cells that regulate bone remodeling, a physiological mechanism essential for keeping bones strong and healthy.
When oxidative stress induces abnormal death of these cells (a process called apoptosis), the balance is disrupted, favoring bone fragility.
Foods with high antioxidant potential, such as berries, can therefore play an important role in preventing and managing these conditions.
The properties of blueberries: a natural aid for bone cells
Research has demonstrated for the first time that blueberry juice, rich in polyphenols, has remarkable antioxidant and protective properties at the cellular level.
In particular, it was found that:
- Protects against cell death: Blueberry juice prevents oxidative stress-induced apoptosis in osteocytes.
- Defends precursor cells: It can prevent cellular damage in bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), considered a fundamental tool for cell therapies in skeletal disorders.
These findings clarify, at the cellular and molecular level, the mechanisms through which blueberries counter oxidative stress-induced damage, supporting the processes of new bone tissue formation (osteogenesis).
Blueberries and bone remodeling: a precision mechanism
Beyond direct antioxidant action, blueberries act on highly precise molecular mechanisms.
The study revealed that their compounds are able to reverse the increase of two key factors that promote bone resorption, i.e., the breakdown of bone tissue.
Moreover, blueberries are not just simple antioxidants, but also act as activators of type 1 sirtuin (SIRT1).
SIRT1 is a protein involved in regulating cell death and is considered a strategic molecular target to block bone resorption without damaging the survival of the cells that govern it.
This dual action, antioxidant and molecular activation, makes its role particularly comprehensive and effective.
From research to practice: blueberry juice or extract?
An interesting finding from the research is that no significant difference was observed between the protective effects of blueberry juice and those of a blueberry dry extract, provided the total polyphenol content was the same.
This suggests that the benefits can be obtained through different forms of fruit consumption, as long as its bioactive compounds are present.
Conclusion
Scientific evidence confirms and deepens the value of berries for human health.
The results obtained on blueberries, in line with previous studies conducted on animal models, suggest that this fruit could be a useful dietary supplement for the prevention and management of osteoporosis and for supporting bone regeneration processes.
The targeted and complex action of these small fruits on our body paves the way for an increasingly functional vision of nutrition.
Including in the diet foods rich in specific bioactive compounds, such as those found in blueberries, represents a natural and sophisticated approach to supporting body systems and pursuing lasting well-being.
Source: Domazetovic, V., Marcucci, G., Pierucci, F., Bruno, G., Di Cesare Mannelli, L., Ghelardini, C., Brandi, M.L., Iantomasi, T., Meacci, E. and Vincenzini, M.T. (2019), Blueberry juice protects osteocytes and bone precursor cells against oxidative stress partly through SIRT1. FEBS Open Bio, 9: 1082-1096. https://doi.org/10.1002/2211-5463.12634
🫐 Well-being & Health with Berries 🍓This article is part of the editorial series Wellness & Health with Berries, which brings scientific research closer to everyday life, promoting berries as allies for well-being. The series offers clear, up-to-date, and evidence-based content designed to inform consumers and support all operators in the berry supply chain. |
