(LB03-10-24) Impacts of Wild Blueberries on Weight Loss: A Randomized Clinical Trial

Objectives: As cases of obesity increase, identification of specific foods that can effectively promote weight loss may be beneficial for the general public. Limited available data point to the capacity of wild blueberries to impact appetite regulation, which may translate to reduced energy intake and weight loss. The objective of this study was to assess the potential for wild blueberries to serve as a simple and effective weight loss tool compared to an isocaloric control food. We hypothesized that daily consumption of wild blueberries would translate to improved adherence to a weight loss regimen, therefore contributing to greater weight and fat loss.

Methods: Forty overweight or obese men and women aged 18-50 years were recruited. Participants were randomly assigned to consume either frozen wild blueberries mixed with yogurt or an isocaloric feeding of yogurt mixed with refined, artificially flavored blueberry syrup. All participants were counseled for weight loss in conjunction with daily text messages and weighing. Body composition via bioelectrical impedance, food cravings, and physical activity were assessed at baseline and the 8-week intervention. Data were analyzed using repeated measures ANOVA followed by paired t-tests within groups and independent t-test between groups for post-hoc analyses when appropriate.

Results: Results demonstrated that both interventions promoted weight loss (p < 0.001); however, no significant difference was detected between those consuming wild blueberries or an identical amount of energy from flavored syrup (p=0.869). Body fat mass decreased for both groups (p=0.039), and an increase in cravings control (p=0.003) and decrease in cravings for sweet (p < 0.002) and savory (p=0.008) food was observed.

Conclusions: Data reveal that wild blueberry consumption in overweight or obese adults can be included within a weight loss regimen including counseling sessions, daily text messages, daily weighing, and yogurt consumption. While our findings do not directly support the hypothesis that blueberries would promote greater weight loss, future research should examine their impacts on other health-related responses during weight loss.

Funding Sources: This study was fully funded by the Wild Blueberry Association of North America.