Main Content
Amy Howell, PhD has intensively researched the bioactive phytochemicals responsible for the health benefits of Vaccinium fruits. She is an expert on the different forms of cranberry (juice, dried fruit and dietary supplements), how to consume them, and the most accurate methods of quantifying their bioactive components.
Cranberries and blueberries are native to North America and have a rich folklore history of medicinal uses by the Native American Indians. Many of the uses, once thought to be anecdotal, are now the subject of intensive scientific research. Cranberry consumption has been shown clinically to prevent urinary tract infections (UTIs), suppress the bacteria that cause stomach ulcers, and reduce periodontal disease.
Research in Howell’s lab has targeted the isolation, characterization and bioactivity of specific compounds in cranberry called A-type proanthocyanidins (PACs), which have a range of positive effects on prevention of bacterial adhesion, gut invasion and motility – all important aspects for managing UTIs. Regular consumption of cranberry PACs can also improve gut health by enhancing gut barrier function and the production of the protective mucin layer, reducing “leaky gut syndrome” without the gas and bloating side effects of probiotics.
Howell is interested in curtailing overuse of antibiotics by encouraging daily cranberry consumption to prevent UTIs and suppress Helicobacter pylori bacteria responsible for stomach ulcers. She travels to many countries, especially China and India to educate consumers and healthcare professionals on the health benefits of cranberry and the potential for utilizing cranberry as an alternative to low-dose antibiotics for infection prevention (however, antibiotics should still be taken for treating infections).
For more information on the health benefits of cranberries, please visit the The Cranberry Institute website.
Research on blueberries from many labs around the world, originally focused on antioxidant activity, but has now expanded into the areas of anti-inflammation, and cell signaling. Much of the research has shown positive effects of blueberry on Metabolic Syndrome and age-related mental decline, including cognitive and motor functions.
Increases in functionality have been observed in clinical trials utilizing blueberry. Blueberries are known for their broad array of phytochemicals, especially flavonoids. In Howell’s lab, she has isolated proanthocyanidins, anthocyanins and flavonol glycosides from blueberries and collaborated with other researchers to determine their health effects, especially on human viruses and periodontal disease.
Howell is the Public Member on the US Highbush Blueberry Council and sits on the Research Committee, which funds many of the human health research projects utilizing blueberries.
