Though the roster of “superfoods” is filled with names that many
people outside of nutritional circles are probably not too familiar
with, most of us know and love the common blueberry. This popular, sweet
little berry is packed with important nutrients, and can be a great
contribution to overall good health.
Blueberries are full of the micronutrients that our bodies require
for healthy functioning. They are also a good source of vitamin A,
vitamin K, manganese, and important dietary fiber. Another great thing
about blueberries is that they have a low glycemic load. What this means
is that they do not substantially raise blood glucose levels after
being eaten. There is promising evidence that blueberries are good for:
1. Improve memory function
A 12 week study out of the University of Cincinna found that older
adults benefited from improved memory after consuming wild blueberry
juice on a daily basis. The researchers concluded that this was likely
due to antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compounds known as anthocyanins
that are found in blueberries.
2. Support heart health
The antioxidant effect of blueberries may also help to prevent
cardiovascular disease. Though more research needs to be done,
especially in humans, researchers at the University of Arkansas
discovered that mice fed with blueberry powder showed healthier heart
vessels.
3. Prevent urinary tract infections (UTIs)
Blueberries may be helpful for preventing UTIs because they contain
compounds known as flavonoids. Flavonoids are good for helping the body
fight off and get rid of bacterial infections.
Read also – 10 Best Antioxidant-Rich Foods
4. Reduce inflammation
Along with the already noted anti-inflammatory effect of
anthocyanins, flavonoids are also known for their anti-inflammatory
properties. This can make blueberries helpful for inflammatory diseases
such as arthritis. Of course, such conditions require a healthy
lifestyle of a good diet and regular exercise in order to be managed
properly, but consistent blueberry intake may help to reduce some of the
pain.
5. Help to prevent cancer
One of the most exciting and hopeful new paths coming from research
into the health effects of blueberries is the possibility that they may
prevent and inhibit the growth of cancer cells. These studies are
tentative and have so far only been done on animals or on human cells in
a laboratory setting. Nonetheless, researchers have had promising
results that are sure to lead to more studies in the future.
6. Slow down visual loss
High in anthocyanosides, blueberries help to slow down visual loss.
Due to their antioxidant properties, these tiny berries can delay or
prevent age-related ocular problems, including cataract, macular
degeneration, myopia and hypermetropia. The thing is, blueberries
contain a special group of powerful antioxidants such as carotenoids
(zeaxanthin, lutein), flavonoids (resveritrol, rutin, quercetin), as
well as vitamins A, C, and E, selenium, phosphorus and zinc, which are
all essential and beneficial for the ocular health.
7. Reduce belly fat
Eating blueberries regularly can also help you get rid of belly fat. A
handful of blueberries is a healthy and nutritious snack, so why not
eat it right now to boost your health and reduce belly fat? You can add
blueberries to your smoothies, yogurt, pancakes, waffles and sprinkle
them on your cereal.
8. Good for your skin and hair
Ever wondered how you can get healthy skin and hair naturally? Eating
a cup of blueberries can provide fantastic benefits such as a glowing
skin and a healthy and shiny hair. Blueberries help to fight free
radical damage, and the antioxidants in these berries protect you from
premature aging. I think it’s a great reason to eat blueberries daily.
Read also – 10 Foods to Eat Every Day for Perfect Skin
9. Keep away constipation
Blueberries are high in fiber that can help relieve constipation.
Just make sure you don’t eat too much of them. A big handful of
blueberries will be enough to keep away constipation. If you have
constipation frequently, you need to consult your doctor to find out the
reason.
10. Improve digestion
Last but not least health benefit of blueberries is that they help to
keep your digestive system healthy. Vitamins, copper, sodium, fiber,
fructose and acids in blueberries improve digestion and can help you
feel fuller longer. Both fresh and frozen blueberries make great
additions to smoothies and baked goods. It’s an excellent way to reap
the benefits of blueberries.
Even if you aren’t worried about any particular disease you should
consider snacking on blueberries more often instead of reaching for a
bag of chips. Eat them by the handful or throw them into your favorite
smoothie for an easy way to give your body some important nutrients.
What’s your favorite way to eat blueberries?
source : http://en.amerikanki.com/health-benefits-blueberries/