Pint-Sized but Powerful: The Healthy Benefits of Blueberries
- Published: Tuesday, July 7th 2015
- in Nutrition
In honor of Blueberry Month, our friends Across the Pond are sharing the massive healthy benefits of blueberries.
The main reason for the popularity of blueberries is the fact that they contain extremely powerful antioxidants which have a variety of positive effects on your health. Antioxidants work to protect your body’s cells from damage by free radicals (which can be the cause of some cancers and skin damage). Antioxidants are great for your skin as they help to reduce signs of aging and will keep you looking younger and healthier for much longer. As well as positively affecting your appearance, antioxidants can also strengthen your immune system and prevent infections.
In addition to the wonderful benefits of antioxidants blueberries also pack quite the health punch when it comes down to vitamins and nutrients. Blueberries have plenty of vitamin C which is also the key to a strong and immune system as well as aiding the formation of collagen and helping to keep your gums healthy. Blueberries contain a healthy amount of fiber which is great for your digestive system and can help to lower your cholesterol levels. This is just one way in which blueberries are good for your heart as they also contain anthocyanins which can also lower blood cholesterol.
There have been several studies which found blueberries can improve your memory and help to keep your brain healthy too. Amazingly, blueberries have been known to reduce blood sugar and ward off feelings of depression, so by consuming more of these small but mighty berries you’ll not only be taking care of your body but also looking after your mind and happiness too.
Blueberries can easily be incorporated into any diet and can make delicious, healthy snacks to keep you satisfied during the day. Blueberries and yogurt can make a healthy balanced breakfast whilst blueberry smoothies and juices can be made at home and enjoyed throughout the day. It is also a known fact that freezing blueberries contains their goodness for longer, so fill your freezer with them and you’ll soon find that you feel healthier, as well as happier, in no time.
Try some of these delicious blueberry recipes to reap the rewards today!
