The 7 benefits of eating blueberries

When was the last time you ate blueberries? If you can't remember the last time you have had blueberries, then you should eat them now. Blueberries are popular, nutritious, and also finger-licking good. They are labeled as the superfood due to their nutritious benefits to our health. Let us look at the 7 benefits of eating blueberries.

1. Blueberries have few calories and lots of nutrient

Blueberries begin from a flowering scrub that later develops into purple fruit. They are somewhat similar to cranberries and huckleberries. These are, however, small measuring 16mm in diameter and have an end that contains a flared crown.

Blueberries are green when they are unripe and turn to blue-purple afterward. They are classified into two categories namely high bush berries and low bush berries. You will find most high bush berries grown in the US. Low bush berries are common for their antioxidant properties. A cup of blueberries can give you vitamin K, Manganese, Fiber, and Vitamin C.

2. They act as antioxidants

Blueberries are also famous for their anti-oxidant properties. We need antioxidants to protect our body cells from being destroyed by free radicals. Blueberries also prevents unstable molecules from damaging cellular structures. These are responsible for conditions such as cancer and aging.

It is among the fruits that we are advised to take in high amounts. Blueberries belong to the polyphenols family that is called flavonoids. According to research, the anthocyanin has a lot of benefits to our health. Therefore, blueberries increase the levels of antioxidant in our bodies.

3. Blueberries minimize the damage of DNA

Research shows that DNA damage occurs rapidly in our bodies every day. When our DNA is damaged, it makes us appear old and can lead to diseases such as Cancer. Blueberries neutralize the radicals that damage the DNA. Mixing blueberries and apple juice minimize free radicals by at least 20%. You can also consider powdered blueberries.

 4. Blueberries reduces blood pressure and diabetes

People suffering from hypertension are advised to take high amounts of blueberries every day for at least two months. Post-menopausal women are also encouraged to take blueberries. Studies show that blueberries regulate your blood sugar and help you maintain the recommended levels.

Unlike most fruits that have high sugar content, blueberries have moderate levels. A cup of blueberry juice equals 15 grams of sugar which are similar to taking a large orange. Blueberries contain bioactive compounds which help in controlling blood sugar in your body.

The anthocyanins in this fruit have positive effects on the sensitivity of insulin in your body as well as glucose metabolism. People who are obese can also benefit from blueberries due to the insulin sensitivity. This reduces the risk of getting type 2 diabetes and metabolic syndrome.

5. Blueberries enhance the functioning of your brain

One of the factors that affect the brain function is oxidative stress. The antioxidants that are found in blueberries accumulate in your brain. This can increase your intelligence level. When you take blueberries, they get into direct contact with your aging neuron, thus improving cell signaling process.

If you have cognitive impairment, taking blueberry juice every day can reverse this. It improves the functioning of your brain. It also delays cognitive aging in seniors by two years.

6. Blueberries curbs heart diseases and other infections

We mentioned that blueberries contain anthocyanins as the significant oxidant. You are not prone to suffering from a heart attack with these fruits.  More studies are still being conducted to support this theory. The fruit is also useful in treating infections such as urinary tract in women. Most women are advised to take cranberry juice. Cranberries are related to blueberries since they contain similar elements in them. The substances are known as anti-adhesives, and they prevent bacteria such as E.coli from affecting your bladder. They block the bacteria from binding to your bladder wall.

7. Blueberries are useful after training

If you suffer from muscle fatigue due to intense exercises, you should take blueberries. It prevents soreness in your muscles and fatigue. It  also allows you to recover faster by inhibiting oxidative stress and inflammation.

Bottom line

We can learn that blueberries have numerous benefits to our bodies. Their taste is a bonus to every benefit you would be receiving by taking them. Buy the products we have mentioned and add them to your diet today.