Blueberries are a superfood high in fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants. They benefit heart health, digestion, and urinary tract function, and may prevent high cholesterol and Alzheimer’s disease. Blueberries also contain essential micronutrients, including antioxidants, manganese, and fiber. They are believed to fight free radicals, preserve vision, and protect eye health. Studies suggest that they can lower cholesterol and high blood pressure, and help maintain urinary tract health. Fresh and frozen berries contain the same health benefits, and are recommended to be consumed between May and October.
The many health benefits of blueberries have resulted in it being mentioned as one of the world’s superfoods. Blueberries are high in fiber and vitamins, while also being low in calories. They are also known for their beneficial antioxidant properties. Some examples of bodily systems that have been shown to benefit include overall heart health, effective digestion, and urinary tract function. Recent studies have suggested that blueberries may also prevent other health problems, such as high cholesterol and Alzheimer’s disease.
Blueberries come from a shrub that belongs to the genus Vaccinium of the heather family or Ericaceae. One of the health benefits of blueberries is that they contain several micronutrients that are considered essential for the human body. The berries are rich in vitamins C and E, which are also considered antioxidants. Blueberries also contain the dietary mineral manganese, which has several reported benefits, including promoting bone and nerve health. They are a source of soluble and insoluble fiber, which aids digestion. A good low-calorie food option, one cup (145 grams) of blueberries contains only about 80 calories.
In addition to their high nutritional value, blueberries are also known for their beneficial antioxidants. They contain anthocyanins, the pigments that give berries their dark hues. The antioxidant properties of the anthocyanins in blueberries are believed to fight free radicals that lead to ailments like heart disease and certain types of cancer. They are also believed to help preserve vision and protect eye health.
A recent study in which subjects consumed cranberry juice suggests that the anthocyanins in cranberries may also combat memory loss, as well as other symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease, in some older adults. Additional studies on the health benefits of blueberries have shown that they can also lower cholesterol and high blood pressure. Another antioxidant in cranberries, called epicatechin, has a similar medical effect to cranberries, having been shown to help maintain urinary tract health.
The berries occur throughout North and South America, as well as parts of Europe and Asia. In order to maximize the health benefits of blueberries, most nutritionists recommend enjoying them between May and October, when North American-grown blueberries are at their peak. Fresh and frozen berries generally contain the same health benefits. However, less information is available on the effectiveness of blueberries when they are an ingredient in processed foods.
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