This randomized double-blind, placebo-controlled trial was conducted to assess the effects of of daily wild blueberry supplementation on transient and chronic mood.

To do so, 64 adolescents were randomized to receive either wild blueberries (containing ~253mg anthocyanins) or matched placebo for 4 weeks. Outcome measures included depression and anxiety symptoms, and transient affect.

Results showed that there were significantly fewer self-reported depression symptoms in participants receiving the wild blueberry intervention compared to the matched placebo (p = 0.02). There was no between group effect on anxiety symptoms or on transient affect.

In conclusion, wild blueberry supplementation may be a potential prevention strategy for adolescent depression and may have benefits for public mental health.

Fisk J, Khalid S, Reynolds SA, Williams CM. Effect of 4 weeks daily wild blueberry supplementation on symptoms of depression in adolescents [published online ahead of print, 2020 Mar 10]. Br J Nutr. 2020;1–22.