Blueberries are popular around the world not only for their good taste but for their nutritional qualities as well. In fact, recent research suggest that blueberries are one of the most vital fruits for those wanting to maintain their health at the highest level. The base for all of the health benefits of blueberries is in the fact that they are extremely rich in antioxidants. Antioxidants are very important in our diets as they help support overall health and our immune system. Due to the blueberry having high levels of antioxidants regular consumption of blueberries will help to eliminate free radicals in our bodies and contribute to overall good health. The list of health benefits provided by blueberries is almost limitless and below we have tried to capture some of the most important ones.
Lowers Cholesterol
One major health benefit of blueberries is their ability to naturally lower ones cholesterol. Recent research has shows that the antioxidant pterostilbene, which is highly concentrated in blueberries, has been proven to lower cholesterol in the same way as we see with many prescription drugs. Eating blueberries is a way that those with high cholesterol can look to lower it without being forced to take expensive and potentially side effect loaded prescription drugs.
Helps Infection
Another health benefit of blueberries is their ability to prevent urinary tract infections and cure them as well. Blueberries have been proven time and time again to be an excellent food source for urinary traction infection prevention and cure due to their high level of antioxidants. In order to get the greatest benefit against UTI it is recommended that one consume total raw and unsweetened blueberry juice but regular blueberries should also do the trick.
Improves Eyesight
The nutrients contained in blueberries have been shown to help greatly in improving and maintaining peoples eyesight. Blueberries are extremely high in Vitamin A which is a vital nutrient for maintaining good vision. Blueberries have also been shown to help those with tired and dry eyes.
Slows Aging Process
Blueberries high antioxidant concentration has also been proven to help slow down the bodies normal aging process but helping to prevent age-related illnesses including arthritis, diabetes, cancer, and heart disease. Finally, the antioxidants and vitamins in blueberries are known to be excellent for helping one maintain and improve brain function. In animal studies, blueberries appear to reverse some aspects of brain aging. Regular consumption of blueberries can help both memory and concentration, especially in those suffering from Alzheimers or Parkinsons disease.
Eat Blueberries Regularly
In order to experience the blueberries health benefits to the fullest extent it is best to consume blueberries in a raw and natural form while unsweetened. Beyond that it has also been proven that wild blueberries contain the greatest level of antioxidants which are the maintain contributors to the blueberries health benefits. In order to get blueberries that contain these higher level of antioxidants it is recommended that you grow your own little giant blueberries. These blueberries are more natural and more fresh than anything you can buy at the store.
Regardless of where you decide to get your blueberries it is clear that they provide enormous benefits and that everybody should be eating them regularly.
For more you can learn how to grow blueberries at home.
Photo by norwichnuts
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