Anthocyanins are colored pigments found in the phenolic group. Polyphenols in the blueberry extract have strong antioxidant properties. How polyphenols in blueberries protect against disease is not fully worked out, but proposed mechanisms include:
- Improving brain function through the brain-derived neurotrophic signaling pathway
- Stimulating myosin production to increase bone strength
- Increase cyanidin-3-glucoside in retinal cells to protect vision
- Reduce oxidative stress in the heart and liver
- Increase hippocampal nerve growth mRNA to improve cognitive function
- Improve antioxidant response in blood vessels to prevent cardiovascular disease
- Reduce insulin sensitivity and increase insulin production
- Downregulate PPAR genes to reduce fat accumulation