The Health Benefits of Blueberries
Blueberries are already quite popular and Americans simply love them. In fact, there are so many recipes that have been made with the help of blueberries that it may actually amaze you that these delicious fruits have so many health benefits. If you have not started using them already, then you must focus on getting a good amount of them in your kitchen. Blueberries grow all around the world and are rich in vitamins and minerals they are sweet and delicious to eat, and also come in different colors ranging from dark blue to purple. You can also enjoy them by adding them to muffins, cakes, yoghurt, cereal or ice creams. Here is what the experts have to say about the benefits.
Blueberries are rich in antioxidants like most of the other berries. They are helpful for preventing signs of ageing from appearing on the skin, making your appear youthful, keeping the heart working at an optimum level and also in enhancing the various functions of the body. They have many effects on your mental capacity as well. Studies have shown they help improving memory and concentration which is also a great benefit for all, no matter if you are a students or a sportsman.
Blueberries are rich in anthocyanin. This chemical compound has been found to bind the free cholesterol of the blood. This helps in reducing the overall HDL cholesterol count of the blood and your heart is able to function properly. Moreover, the cardiac muscles will also benefit and they will get a steady boost in their strength over time which will help in proper circulation as well.
Nutritional Value- The nutritional value is also quite high. They contains a high percentage of Vitamin K, followed by Vitamin C and manganese along with smaller quantities of other essential vitamins and minerals. This makes them a complete super food that can fulfil the recommended daily nutritional value for all the above mentioned nutrients.
Cognitive functions improvement- There has been noted a marked improvement in the cognitive functions such as memory with people who consume blueberries regularly. Therefore, one must use them as much as they can. A glass of the juice each day would be great in anyone's diet. They are also great for your sight - The eyes often stay prone to oxidation issues. Blueberries contain antioxidants; phytonutrients as well as anthocyanins which may help in maintaining your eye health.
Cancer prevention properties - Like most fruit, blueberries too are quite effective against carcinogens. They contain catechin which has been proven to be quite active at cancer prevention in laboratory conditions. This way, these berries do not only strengthen the normal functions of the body, but also create a stronger defense mechanism in the body which may help you live a longer and healthier life.
Dietary fiber - Fiber is also an important component of these tiny fruits. The dietary fiber that we find in these berries will help in stomach upsets, reducing cholesterol and also helping the heart to maintain its proper level of functioning.
Free radicals are targeted - As these berries are high on the antioxidants scale, they will bind the free radicals circulating in the blood and present in the cells in order to give you a more youthful appearance. The inflammations of your body will also be reduced.
Increases metabolism and reduces fat- All the benefits of the blueberries are deeply connected with each other. As the risk of cardiovascular diseases and diabetes is reduced, dietary fiber removes all impurities and detoxifies your body; your metabolism will also see a steady enhancement. Moreover the phytochemicals and Vitamin C will be working together to reduce fat in your body, especially on the belly which also happens to be the most stubborn fat in the whole body. Therefore, all the nutrients will work together for a better and healthy system.