Cathal Barry
Blueberries are a rich source of nutrients and antioxidants
Blueberries are the super fruit that pack a healthy punch. They are a rich source of nutrients, and they contain a significant amount of the antioxidants that possess great nutritional value. The benefit of eating just two cups of blueberries every day exceeds the benefits of all other types of berries combined.
Although blueberries make an enticing addition to your muffins and cakes, the best way to take advantage of their nutritional benefits is by eating a cup of fresh blueberries every morning. This can be done by adding them to your porridge, cereal, yogurt or simply enjoying them as they are.
Prior to eating blueberries, ensure that they are washed briefly to prevent removal of the protective ashen layer of the berry. While organic blueberries are free from production chemicals, it’s best to give them a rinse as well because of handling during transit and stocking.
Diseases
The antioxidants in blueberries have an endless list of benefits, from preventing early aging to protecting you against diseases like cancer and chronic heart disease. The antioxidants prevent cell damage by neutralising the radicals and helping keep diseases at bay. Blueberries also prevent inflammation that is a known cause of aging diseases, like Alzheimer’s disease and brain aging.
Blueberries are natural brain food and can help in reversing short-term memory loss and other symptoms associated with aging. The antioxidants also assist with motor skills.
Along with carrots, blueberries provide an excellent source of vitamin A. Blueberries are known to prevent vision loss due to aging. In fact, some claim that during World War II, pilots in the British Royal Air Force (RAF) regularly consumed blueberries because they enhanced their night vision. According to the stories, the blueberries improved the pilots’ sight so much that they were able to complete their missions with significantly greater accuracy.
Antioxidants
Blueberries also contain antioxidants such as anthocyanins, proanthocyanidins, resveratrol, flavonols and tannins that help prevent growth of cancer cells. Lab studies have found the benefits of blueberries include preventing colon cancer and ovarian cancer.
Adding a bowl of blueberries to your daily diet is a healthy way to manage weight, control diabetes and prevent cancer. Packed with antioxidants and a low calorie count to boot, blueberries are nutrient-rich choice for a healthier life.
Next week we will take a look at the benefits of some other berries in the super fruit family.
