This Superfood May Reduce Allergies and Inflammation in Babies: Study Shows - Video

Feeding blueberries to infants during early weaning could provide a powerful boost to their immune system and gut health, according to a study published in Nutrients. The research is the first double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled clinical trial to examine the specific effects of a single food—blueberries—on infant health.

Introducing solid foods is a critical milestone for babies, yet many parents are left uncertain about which foods offer the most benefit.

The study followed 61 healthy infants in the Denver area between the ages of five and 12 months. Each infant was randomly assigned to receive either a daily dose of freeze-dried blueberry powder or a placebo powder without blueberries. Parents were instructed to incorporate the powder into their child's usual diet without changing other eating habits. Stool and blood samples were collected every two months to track gut microbiota, immune system markers, and allergy symptoms.

The results were compelling. Infants who consumed the blueberry powder showed improved allergy symptoms, reduced inflammation, and signs of a stronger immune response. Moreover, researchers noted beneficial changes in gut bacteria composition, which could support long-term immune health.

Importantly, the study confirms that blueberries are not only safe for infants but can offer measurable health benefits. “Just a few blueberries a day could make a difference in supporting long-term health,” said senior author Minghua Tang, PhD, adjoint associate professor of pediatrics in the CU Anschutz School of Medicine’s Section of Nutrition. “We view infancy as a critical window of opportunity, and what we introduce during this time can have lasting effects as children grow.”

As researchers continue to explore which early foods best support developing immune systems, this study offers promising guidance for parents navigating early nutrition choices.

Reference: Venter, C., Boden, S., Pickett-Nairne, K., O’Mahony, L., Glime, G. N. E., Matzeller, K. L., Frank, D. N., Kotter, C., Kofonow, J. M., Robertson, C. E., Campbell, W. W., Krebs, N. F., & Tang, M. (2025). Blueberry Consumption in Early Life and Its Effects on Allergy, Immune Biomarkers, and Their Association with the Gut Microbiome. Nutrients, 17(17), 2795. https://doi.org/10.3390/nu17172795