The important health benefits of blueberries
Many nutrition experts recommend eating at least five servings of fruits and vegetables every day, and those same nutritionists understand the value of eating a variety of different colored fruits and vegetables.
Blueberries and nutrition
That is because different colored fruits and vegetables contain different nutrients, and blueberries are among the most nutrient dense of all foods. In addition to their many other benefits, blueberries are thought to reduce the risk of many varieties of cancers. Blueberries are among the richest sources of antioxidants, which are thought to play a strong role in the prevention of many cancers.
In addition to their possible role in the prevention of many forms of cancer, blueberries are being studied for their important role in protecting the brain and preventing memory loss. In addition, blueberries are thought to be one of the best fruits at improving the function of the urinary tract and even retarding the aging process. Blueberries are rich in many healthy phytochemicals, including the anthocyanins and phenolics which are being studied for their antiaging and anticancer benefits.
Health benefits of blueberries
Some of the many health benefits associated with blueberries include improved eyesight, reduced risk of heart disease, stronger blood vessels, better memory performance, reduced risk of urinary tract infections and promoting a healthy weight.
Blueberries are also among the richest sources of antioxidants in the diet. Antioxidants are thought to play an important role, both in the prevention of cancer and the mitigation of aging related decline. That is beauase antioxidants are thought to be able to prevent the cell damage that can be caused by free radicals. Free radicals are thought to play an important role in the formation of cancer and in the aging process, so disrupting these free radicals can have many important health benefits.
Antioxidant properties
One of the most important antioxidants contained in blueberries are anthocyanins. These important nutrients are also contined in applies, blackberries, grapes, radishes and red cabbage, but blueberries are among the richest sources of anthocyanins. Blueberries are also being studied for their abilty to reduce the formation of blood clots and preventing heart disease. Blueberries are also thought to help to improve nighttime vision and to slow the progression of macular generation by strengthening the small blood vessels found in the back of the eye.
In addition to their many health benefits, blueberries are among the lowest calorie foods in a healthy diet. A half cup serving of blueberries provides a scant 40 calories, but it provides a strong lineup of vitamins and minerals such as potassium, iron and of course vitamin C. In addition, blueberries are strong sources of dietary fiber. Each half cup serving of blueberries provides a full two grams of dietary fiber, as much as in an entire slice of whole wheat bread.
In short, blueberries are among the richest sources of antioxidants and other important nutrients. In addition, blueberries are delicious, versatile, high in fiber and low in calories. What more could you ask for in a single food?