Uncovering the Fruits Superfood Status
Blueberries are asuperfoodthat can provide substantial health benefits.
Theyre packed with nutrients, such as fiber, vitamin C, andmanganese.
Blueberries also contain special antioxidants that may ward off disease.
Andrii Zastrozhnov/ Getty Images
Andrii Zastrozhnov/ Getty Images
What’s a Superfood Anyway?
Benefits Packed Inside Blueberries
Blueberries contain compounds that may improve your health and prevent some common diseases.
The fiber content in blueberries may also provide heart benefits.
Studies have found highdietary fiberintake can lower incidence and death rates due toheart disease.
Prevent Cancer
Blueberries have one of the highest concentrations of disease-fighting antioxidants, which may protect againstcancer.
Some research has shown blueberry extract can help sensitize cancer cells to the effects ofradiationtreatment.
The antioxidants in blueberries may also reduce abnormal cell growth, which feeds cancer.
Improve Memory
Eating blueberries may help improve your memory recall.
Researchers believe the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects of the fruit are responsible for boosting brain health.
Help Gut Health
The high fiber content in blueberries could improve yourdigestive health.
Additionally, the berries are rich in compounds that act likeprebiotics, which promote healthy bacteria in the gut.
Support Vision
Eating blueberries maysupport your eye health.
Anthocyanins found in the fruit have protective properties that can protect your sight.
They may also help slow vision loss in eye conditions likemacular degenerationandretinitis pigmentosa.
In a study, athletes who drank blueberry smoothies before and after their workouts experienced accelerated muscle recovery.
Help Manage Diabetes
Blueberries are high in fiber and lower in sugar than other types of fruit.
This combination helps prevent yourblood sugar levelsfrom spiking.
Some studies suggest that adding blueberries to your diet may lower your risk of developingtype 2 diabetes.
How Many Blueberries Should You Eat in a Day?
Berries, in general, have a good nutritional profile.
While blueberries might contain more of a particular nutrient, other berries might provide different benefits.
They are better for you than refined sugars commonly found in processed foods.
Whats more, research has shown that the fruit can provide positive health effects for people with diabetes.
Blueberries that have a red hue to them are underripe.
Should Anyone Not Eat Blueberries?
People who are allergic to blueberries should avoid the fruit.
Nutrient-Dense Blueberry Ideas
Blueberries are easy to incorporate into snacks and meals.
Youll enjoy the health benefits of blueberries and the nutrients these other foods provide.
Incorporating them into your diet could provide disease protection.
But blueberries alone wont make you healthy.
A balanced diet and regular exercise are the best ways to ensure overall wellness.
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