Blueberries may help to reduce the amount of damage muscles cells and fibers suffer due to oxidative stress during exercise. Containing powerful antioxidant compounds known as polyphenols, the blueberry has become one of the most popular research subjects in nutrition. A recent article published in Molecular Nutrition & Food Research (March 2010) studied the ability of blueberry extract to protect working muscle fibers in vitro (in the lab) from oxidative or free radical damage. Blueberry extract was shown to significantly protect muscle cells, reducing oxidative stress, thereby potentially helping to reduce muscle damage during and after exercise. More research, especially in humans is needed to fully appreciate the impact blueberry and related polyphenols have on overall health.
To read more on this study: