If you're in search of a true superberry, look no further than the lingonberry, which stands out for its impressive antioxidant content and body-boosting phytonutrients.

Despite it's small size, this berry packs a punch with numerous medicinal and nutritional benefits!

Packed with antioxidants, vitamin A, vitamin C, and magnesium, lingonberries are often included in products like cough syrups and used to treat blood disorders and urinary tract infections. They are also popular in gardens, where they serve as excellent ground cover.

What Are Lingonberries?

Lingonberries are a member of the Ericaceae family, which includes blueberries and cranberries. Scientifically known as Vaccinium vitis-idaea, lingonberries go by several other names, such as partridgeberry, foxberry, cowberry, northern mountain cranberry, wolf-berry, dry ground cranberry, rock cranberry, tyttebaer, and simply "ling".

Nutrition Facts

One cup of raw lingonberries provides approximately:

75 calories

6 grams of carbohydrates

3 grams of protein

3 grams of healthy oils

9 grams of fiber

21.6 milligrams of vitamin C (36% of the Daily Value)

1,500 IU of vitamin A (30% of the Daily Value)

Packed with Antioxidants that Help Prevent Bacterial Infections

Lingonberries contain powerful antioxidants, including phenolic compounds, proanthocyanidins, anthocyanins, hydroxycinnamic acids, hydroxybenzoic acids, and flavonols. These compounds give lingonberries their bacteria-fighting, antimicrobial, and anti-inflammatory properties, making them one of the best antioxidant-rich foods.

Reduces Inflammation in the Body

A study published in the European Journal of Clinical Nutrition involved 40 healthy men aged 60 who consumed 100 grams of berries, including lingonberries, daily for eight weeks. The results showed a significant increase in quercetin, an antioxidant with known anti-inflammatory properties. Quercetin can help reduce chronic inflammation, making lingonberries a beneficial food for conditions like arthritis and other inflammatory disorders.

May Inhibit Cancer Cell Growth

Research published in the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry explored the effects of extracts from 10 different fruits and berries, including lingonberries. The study found that these extracts helped decrease the proliferation of colon and cancer cells. The combination of vitamin C and antioxidant-rich anthocyanins in lingonberries may contribute to this potential cancer-fighting effect.

Reduces the Risk of Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs) in Women

A study conducted by the University of Oulu in Finland found that women who consumed 50 milliliters of cranberry-lingonberry juice concentrate daily for six months experienced a 20% reduction in the risk of developing UTIs compared to the control group.

Promotes Healthy Teeth and Gums

Lingonberries may help prevent the buildup of harmful bacteria and plaque. The bioactive compounds in lingonberries destabilize the cell membranes of harmful bacteria, inhibiting their growth and reducing the risk of dental issues when consumed regularly.

Lingonberries vs. Other Berries

While variety is key to a balanced diet, the benefits of lingonberries are quite similar to those of other berries. Lingonberries belong to the same family as blueberries and cranberries, and all of these berries are packed with disease-fighting antioxidants, making them all strong contenders in the "superberry" category.

Lingonberries are a delicious, antioxidant-rich fruit that can help combat disease and inflammation. Incorporate them into your routine by adding them to smoothies, using them as a topping for pancakes, or just as cranberries are enjoyed during holiday meals.

Regular consumption of lingonberries may help prevent urinary tract infections, support health, and even inhibit cancer cell growth, along with offering other health benefits. So, make sure to include lingonberries in your diet and enjoy all their wonderful health advantages!