Common in Scandinavia, the lingonberry is related to the cranberry and blueberry. These berries contain phytochemicals known to fight urinary-tract infections and taste tart, which is why they are typically sweetened and found in the U.S. as jams and juices.
Demand for lingonberries climbed after Dr. Oz promoted them on his show, but although animals studies showed the berries can lower inflammation, there are few human studies to support the same health perks.
“As I see it, the promotion of the various drinks, supplements and other products containing lingonberries or other less familiar berries touted as “superfruits” is marketing hype. You can get the same, or better, health benefits by eating organic blueberries, which are more readily available and less expensive,” writes Dr. Andrew Weil, a leader in integrative medicine and author of TRUE FOOD: Seasonal, Sustainable, Simple, Pure on his blog.