Blueberries beneficially modulate physiologic mechanisms relevant to the pathogenesis of functional gastrointestinal disorders (FGID). Forty-three patients with FGID received freeze-dried blueberries (equivalent to 180 g fresh blueberries) or sugar and energy-matched placebo in a double-blind, randomized, cross-over study. After 6 weeks of treatment, the differences in Gastrointestinal Clinical Rating Scale (GSRS) scores and abdominal symptom relief were compared as primary outcome measures. The quality of life and life functioning ratings (OQ45.2 questionnaire), Bristol stool scales, and fructose breath test results constituted secondary outcome measures. Blueberry treatment resulted in more patients with relevant abdominal symptom relief compared to placebo (53% vs. 30%, p = 0.03). Total and pain GSRS scores improved insignificantly (mean treatment differences [95% CI]: -3.4 [-7.4 to 0.6] (p = 0.09) and -1.0 [-2.2 to 0.1] (p = 0.08), respectively). OQ45.2 scores improved during blueberry treatment compared to placebo (treatment difference -3.2 [95% CI: -5.6 to -0], p = 0.01). Treatment effect differences for the further measures did not reach statistical significance. Blueberries relieved abdominal symptoms and improved general markers of well-being, quality of life, and life functioning more than placebo in patients with FGID. Consequently, the polyphenol and fiber components of blueberries exert broad beneficial effects separate from the sugars present in both treatments.
Keywords: disorders of gut–brain interaction; fructose; functional dyspepsia; irritable bowel syndrome; nutraceutical; polyphenols; visceral pain.