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Blueberries as First Food Linked to Stronger Infant Immunity, Healthier Gut in Rigorous Trial

Researchers call the randomized findings an early step toward evidence‑based first‑food guidance for parents.

Overview

  • University of Colorado–led double‑blind, randomized, placebo‑controlled trial followed 61 Denver infants fed daily freeze‑dried blueberry powder or placebo from 5 to 12 months.
  • Infants receiving blueberry powder showed reduced inflammation, stronger immune biomarkers and beneficial shifts in gut microbiota.
  • Parents reported improved pre‑existing allergy symptoms in the blueberry group, with symptoms not caused by the intervention.
  • Stool and blood were collected every two months to track gut bacteria, immune markers and allergy‑related outcomes during typical feeding routines.
  • Findings were published in Nutrients and Frontiers in Nutrition, with authors advising puree or finely cut blueberries for safety and urging larger, more diverse studies.