Blueberries may be tiny, but they pack a powerful punch. They are big on flavor and very big on health benefits. This little fruit is low calorie and contains no fat. They are also a good source of Vitamin C and fiber. Blueberries have one of the highest antioxidant capacities among all fruit, vegetables, spices, and seasonings. They offer cardiovascular benefits, support healthy blood pressure, help reduce cholesterol, contain anti-inflammatory compounds, help improve memory and slow the onset of cognitive problems associated with aging (great news for me!), have a favorable impact on blood sugar regulation, support eye health, and have anti-cancer benefits.
The best way to reap the benefits of this fruit is to eat them raw, rather than bake them into desserts. Eating them raw provides the best flavor and the greatest nutritional benefits. Studies have also shown that you can freeze blueberries without doing any great damage to their antioxidant capacity. That’s great news for those of you who have went blueberry picking. It is recommended that organic blueberries are the best to buy – they have the highest concentration of antioxidants, and eating organic blueberries will help you avoid consuming pesticide residue.
So grab a handful of fresh blueberries and pop them in your mouth. Use them to create a healthy and delicious smoothie. Add them as a topping to your cereal or yogurt. You will like them and so will your body.