Benefits of Blueberries

Benefits of Blueberries

Blueberries are thought of by many people as just one other regular fruit. However, there is more to blueberries than meets your eye and taste – health benefits! Here are some reasons why blueberries should be part of your healthy diet:

1. Blueberries are loaded with antioxidants.
Fresh fruits including blueberries are rich in antioxidants. Antioxidants are special compounds that help protect the body against the harmful effects of free radicals and health problems associated with aging. Blueberries are among the fruits that contain the highest antioxidant content. A cup of blueberries contain 14 mg of Vitamin C, 0.8 mg of vitamin E, along with anthocyanins and phenolics, all of which are popular for their antioxidant properties.

2. Can improve vision
The extract in blueberries contains anthocyanides, which clinical studies have seen to slow down visual loss. The extract in strawberries can also prevent or delay the occurrence of ocular problems such as cataract, macular degeneration, myopia, infections, and so on.

3. Can help promote brain health
Clinical studies also prove that blueberries can help mental function and prevents the decline of the ability of brain cells to function and communicate with each other. It is even seen to prevent short term memory loss that also comes with aging, and can help with the prevention of Alzheimer’s. It is considered to be an important “brain food” because of its rich anthocyanin, vitamin and mineral content.

3. Blueberries may help prevent cancer.
Blueberries are a power of nutrients that can lower down your risk of developing cancer.

4. Can help reduce belly fat.
Studies at the University of Michigan Cardiovascular Center have suggested that blueberries can effectively reduce body fat. Not only that, blueberries are also suggested to lower the risk of cardiovascular disease and other metabolic problems.

5. Helps promote a healthy urinary tract.
Blueberries are known to prevent and relieve urinary tract infections. They have the ability to prevent build-up of certain bacteria in the walls of the intestine.

6. Helps promote proper digestion and prevent constipation
blueberries are rich in fiber to help avoid constipation. Of course, its vitamin, copper, sodium, fructose and acid content also helps promote healthy digestion.

7. May help fight cancer.
There is sufficient evidence that suggest that compounds such as Pterostilbene, Ellagic Acid and Anthocyanin, along with other vitamins, minerals and antioxidants found in blueberries can help fight cancer. Laboratory studies have shown that these compounds in blueberries can prevent the proliferation of cancer cells.

8. Can help with heart disease
The fiber and antioxidant content in blueberries can help against bad cholesterol. It is also reported to help strengthen the cardiac muscles.

9. Strengthens the immune system
The rich nutrients in blueberries help boost immune system levels and prevent infections. Strong immunity levels mean lesser risk for catching colds and other viral or bacterial communicable diseases.

New health benefits of blueberries are discovered everyday. Its rich nutrient and antioxidant content make them an ideal snack – yes, eat them up until your tongue turns blue! Make sure you add blueberries into your everyday diet for a healthier, longer life.