BYLINE: Stephen Stone, National Media Strategist
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CONTACT: Stephen Stone, University Communications
(850) 644-2065; sstone@fsu.edu
March 4, 2026
NATIONAL NUTRITION MONTH: FSU DIETARY EXPERT EXPLAINS HOW WILD BLUEBERRIES BENEFIT CARDIOMETABOLIC HEALTH
Newswise — TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — As National Nutrition Month shines a light on healthy eating, new research points to wild blueberries as a simple way to support cardiometabolic health.
Also referred to as lowbush, wild blueberries are primarily grown in Maine and Canada. Their short shelf life and seasonal availability mean they are often found in frozen packages sold in supermarkets across the country. Both wild blueberries and the traditional highbush blueberries – the ones sold fresh in supermarkets – offer excellent nutritional quality, delicious flavor and unique growing characteristics, and can be enjoyed throughout the year.
Florida State University’s Sarah A. Johnson, an associate professor in the Department of Health, Nutrition, and Food Sciences, was one of 12 researchers who conducted an extensive study on wild and highbush blueberries and their cardiometabolic effects. The findings detailed how wild blueberries can improve key nutritional areas including vascular function, the gut microbiome, blood pressure and blood sugar.
Johnson’s research reveals the nutritional benefits of wild blueberries.
“It’s remarkable to see measurable health impacts from a single food rather than a complete dietary overhaul,” Johnson said. “Fruit and vegetable consumption is generally low among consumers, and the research with blueberries demonstrates that even small daily changes consumers can make can have clinically relevant beneficial health impacts. Some of their demonstrated health benefits include those to cardiovascular and heart health and cognitive function.”
Media interested in interviewing Johnson on her latest research about wild blueberries and their cardiometabolic health benefits may reach out to her via email at sba07@fsu.edu.
Sarah A. Johnson, associate professor, Department of Health, Nutrition, and Food Sciences
One of the major health priorities that has sprouted in recent years is gut health. What did this study tell you about how blueberries can aid in this area?
Blueberries are rich in dietary fiber as well as polyphenols, which are naturally occurring phytochemicals (i.e., plant chemicals) that interact with and are metabolized by the gut microbiota. Through this interaction, health promoting metabolites are produced that can be absorbed in the gastrointestinal tract, enter blood circulation and interact with cells, tissues and organs. These compounds also serve as a food source for beneficial gut microbes, functioning as prebiotics and supporting overall intestinal health. Research to date suggests that blueberry consumption may alleviate some gastrointestinal symptoms and improve markers of gut health, though more research is needed.
What would be your recommendation as to how individuals can incorporate blueberries into their daily diet?
Fresh blueberries are delicious on their own, but they’re also incredibly versatile. They can be added to yogurt, oatmeal, cereals and salads, blended into smoothies; incorporated into baked goods; or used in jams, preserves, juices, sauces; and incorporated into savory dishes such as a topping for pizza. There are numerous ways to enjoy them, and I encourage individuals to experiment and find the options that fit best into their daily routine.
