Health Benefits of Blueberries

Blueberries literally burst with flavour and wholesome goodness and is the blue ribbon winner in nutrition. They are low in calories and take the top prize in the Tufts University analysis of 60 fruits and vegetables for their antioxidant capacity. Blueberries are also a great source of vitamin C, vitamin E, fiber and manganese.

Blueberries offer the following benefits:

Cardiovascular Protection. While we think that wine provides a lot of cardiovascular protection due to the antioxidant anthocyanins, blueberries contain 38% more of these free-radical fighters.

Better Brains. Blueberries help protect the brain from oxidization and may reduce the risk of contracting Alzheimer’s or age-related dementia. Blueberries can significantly improve learning capacity and motor skills.

Cancer Fighter. Blueberries also contain another antioxidant called ellagic acid, which can block the metabolic pathways that can lead to cancer. In a recent study of 1200 senior citizens, those who ate ellagic acid from strawberries were three times less likely to develop cancer than the non-strawberry eaters.

Better Digestion. Blueberries are great as a diarrhea and constipation reliever. Not only does it contain a lot of fiber, blueberries also contain tannins which help reduce inflammation in the gut. They also promote a healthy urinary tract and reduce the ability of E. coli to survive.

Blueberries that are so ripe, almost to the point of spoilage, have been shown to contain the most antioxidants. Buy them fresh and in bulk between their peak months (May to October) or buy them frozen. Avoid canned or processed blueberries as their antioxidant levels will be greatly diminished.

Containing only 80 calories per cup and virtually no fat, blueberries compliment and enhance every diet. Eat and enjoy handfuls of them as a healthy snack with yogurt, in cereal, pancakes, smoothies or desserts.