Phenolic compound in blueberries

Blueberries are a sweet, succulent fruit grown in many parts of the world.

Phenolic compounds are prominent in blueberries strongly refract light and contribute up to 32% to soluble solid readings from a refractometer. Recent interest in health-promoting compound has spurned the production of blueberries. Blueberries contain phenolic compounds such as flavonoids, phenolic acids, procyanidins, lignans, stilbenes and polymeric tannins.

Phenolic compounds present in berries have a varying effect in inhibition of the growth of pathogenic bacteria.

Blueberries contain antioxidant compound called ellagic acid, which blocks metabolic pathways that can lead to cancer. Ellagic acid is a natural phenol antioxidant. It is the dilactone of hexahydroxydiphenic acid. 

Published in Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry (September 2005) show that phenolic compounds in blueberries can inhibit colon cancer growth and kill existing cancer cells in the body.

The primary active component in blueberries in a phenolic compound called anthocyanins. These substance give blueberries their rich blue color.

In addition to their antioxidant activity, blueberries have been found to protect against urinary tract infections, improve ‘tired eyes’ and possibly reduce the effects of aging.
Phenolic compound in blueberries