Why are Bluberries Good for you?
Blueberries, which last 7-10 days when stored in the refrigerator, are absolutely good for your health. In the US, the reason that blueberries rank as the second most popular berry (behind strawberries) is likely because of their health benefits.
To receive the optimal health benefits, we recommend eating your fresh blueberries raw instead of baking them into desserts or drinking highly processed “blueberry” drinks.
Why are Bluberries Good for you?
Health Benefits of Blueberries
Are blueberries good for you? Yes! Blueberries have one of the highest antioxidant capacities among all vegetables, fruits, spices and seasonings. Antioxidants are a key component to combating the free radicals in your body that can damage cellular structures as well as DNA. Free radicals, which are released by the body daily, are responsible for causing many diseases like cancer, Alzheimer’s disease, and cardiovascular diseases. Blueberries consist of antioxidants like anthocyanins and flavonoids, which can nullify the bad effects of free radicals.
The antioxidants in blueberries, including the anti-inflammatory substance called anthocyanin, and its high fiber content have the following effects:
Lowers Blood Pressure and Chances of Cardiovascular Disease
The anthocyanin in blueberries soften the arteries in your heart and works to prevent them from being constricted due to stress. Stress induces high blood pressure which can result in cardiovascular disease, so the anthocyanin, in conjunction with the nitric oxide in blueberries, softens and relaxes the arteries.
Why are Bluberries Good for you?
Blueberries Slow the Aging Process on Nerve Cells
Studies have shown that blueberries slow the aging process on nerve cells. The oxidative stress on the nerves caused by damaged oxygen molecules was observed to be decreased by blueberries.
Blueberries Improve Eye Health
The anthocyanins in blueberry protect the retina from unwanted oxygen damage. Additionally, they also have the effect of protecting the retina from sunlight damage.
Blueberries Improve Brain and Memories
Research on blueberry antioxidants show vast benefits for brain health and the nervous system, which includes the improvement of memory. This research involved adults, with an average age of 76, who consumed 1.5 pounds of blueberries in the form of juice, daily, for 12 weeks. The participants showed noticeable improvement in their cognitive functions, which includes memory, and also showed promising results for slowing down or postponing the onset of other cognitive problems associated with aging.
Blueberries Improve Immune System and Controls Cholesterol
Blueberries are abundant in Vitamin C which aids in the absorption of iron, Vitamin K, and improves the immune system. They are also high in fiber, and foods with a high fiber content will control the cholesterol levels and work to improve the overall health of the heart. In addition, fiber also helps to improve the digestion process.
Blueberries Improve Bone Development
Blueberries are a rich source of manganese. Manganese aids in bone development as well as in metabolism of fats, proteins and carbohydrates.