Medicinal and Health Benefits of Blueberries
Researchers from the USDA Human Nutrition Center say blueberries rank as #1 in antioxidant activity when compared to 40 other fresh fruits and vegetables, and thus contribute in preventing cancer and other age-related diseases.
Dr. Fuhrman of DiseaseProof reiterates the medicinal value of blueberries:
Like all other foods, the calories in blueberries come from its macro nutrients – 56 grams of carbohydrate, 1.5 grams of fat and 2.7 grams of protein. But it is blueberries’ micro nutrient content that packs the most impressive wallop. Blueberries are packed with tannins, anthocyanins that have been linked to prevention – and even reversal – of age related mental decline and anti-cancer effects.
In addition, a compound in blueberries called pterostilbene has been identified and researchers say it has “the potential to be developed into a nutraceutical for lowering cholesterol“.
The US Highbush Blueberry Council has compiled all the recent research on the health benefits of blueberries. These articles (pdf files) are especially interesting:
- Research Excerpts on the antioxidant capacity of blueberries
- Research Excerpts on blueberries and aging
- Blueberry Composition, including the nutrient content of blueberries, flavonoids, proanthycyanins, blueberry nutrition research
Wondering how to incorporate blueberries into your diet? Personally, I love blueberry jams and muffins (I’m not such a star in the kitchen, so I make do with ready-mix stuff), and I never get tired of blueberry cheesecake! Have a look at these blueberry recipes and storage tips for other creative ideas!
^5 from another dim star in the kitchen.
Regular consumption of Blueberries also helps to maintain a healthy vision. Also, from my experience, it is important to buy organic berries rather than conventional: the difference in taste is huge.