Do blueberries boost immunity and gut health in infants?

Recent research concludes that freeze-dried blueberry powder could reduce allergy symptoms in infants and support babies' long-term health.

Giving babies freeze-dried blueberry powder as one of their first solid foods is said to strengthen their immune systems, reduce allergy symptoms, and support healthy gut development.

In a study of 61 babies aged five to twelve months, participants who already had allergy symptoms were given either freeze-dried blueberry powder or a placebo powder without blueberries. Parents were allowed to continue feeding their children as they normally would.

The researchers observed improved allergy symptoms in babies who received the blueberry powder. Furthermore, reduced inflammation parameters and so-called signs of a stronger immune response were observed, as well as changes in gut flora, which are considered beneficial for immune health.

All parameters examined are surrogate endpoints. The effect on the actual health of the children was not investigated. Until this is done, giving blueberries to babies is not sufficiently scientifically substantiated.

Source: https://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/17/17/2795

Author: Prof. Dr. Dirk Devroey - Latest update: 2025-09-26 - Copyright: Clinifacts 2026