There are no official guidelines to assist in answering this question. I will search for relevant research papers instead.
From the Research
Blueberries and Radiation Exposure
- Blueberries have been found to have protective effects against radiation-induced damage in various studies 1, 2, 3, 4.
- The antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of blueberries, particularly anthocyanins and phenolic acids, are thought to contribute to their radioprotective effects 1, 2, 3.
- Studies have shown that blueberry extract or diets rich in blueberries can reduce oxidative stress, inflammation, and DNA damage caused by radiation exposure 1, 2, 3, 4.
Mechanisms of Action
- Blueberries have been found to modulate oxidative stress and suppress NF-κB, a pro-inflammatory transcription factor, in response to radiation exposure 1.
- Blueberries have also been shown to reduce the expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines and increase the expression of antioxidant enzymes 2, 3.
- The anthocyanins present in blueberries have been found to have anti-proliferative and pro-apoptotic effects, which may contribute to their radioprotective effects 5.
Neuroprotective Effects
- Blueberries have been found to have neuroprotective effects against radiation-induced cognitive dysfunction and neurochemical alterations 2, 3, 4.
- Blueberry diets have been shown to reduce neuroinflammation, oxidative stress, and glial cell activation in the brain after radiation exposure 4.
- Blueberries have also been found to improve recognition memory deficits caused by radiation exposure 4.
Radiosensitization
- Blueberries have been found to have radiosensitizing effects, making cancer cells more susceptible to radiation therapy 5.
- The anthocyanins present in blueberries have been found to inhibit cell proliferation and promote apoptosis in cancer cells, which may contribute to their radiosensitizing effects 5.