You know that blueberries are delicious and that they are good for you. But, as you grab a handful of berries to bite into, do you pause to think of the potential benefits of blueberries?
In fact, researchers have left no stone unturned when it comes to assessing the benefits of the nutrient-dense super berries. From delaying signs of aging to aiding weight loss, studies indicate that these ‘little blue dynamos’ hold the key to better skin, hair, and health.
1. BLUEBERRIES ARE PACKED WITH ANTIOXIDANTS
Blueberries contain the highest concentration of antioxidants out of all fruits and vegetables, and these antioxidants are known as flavonoids.
These flavonoids support your cardiovascular and nervous system, as well as preventing disease and inflammation throughout your body. They are also responsible for keeping your cells alive, and for giving you a more youthful glow!
2. BLUEBERRIES ARE LOADED WITH VITAMIN C
Just 1 cup of blueberries contains 25% of your recommended daily vitamin C intake!
Vitamin C boosts your immune system, helping to protect cells from damage, stress or illness. It also promotes faster wound healing and maintains the health of connective tissue between organs!
3. BLUEBERRIES KEEP YOUR BRAIN HEALTHY
Studies have shown that blueberries improve memory, reduce and prevent cognitive disorders related to aging and can improve the cell signaling in your brain, leading to overall mental wellbeing.
Blueberries have also been known to cure Alzheimer’s disease by healing damaged brain cells and neuron tissue, improving motor skills and short term memory significantly.
4. BLUEBERRIES MAKE YOUR HEART STRONGER
Blueberries are high in fiber, low in fat and are packed with heart-strengthening nutrients!
The high concentration of antioxidants in blueberries and the abundant fiber mean that you will lower your blood pressure, reduce your cholesterol and improve
your circulation simultaneously, leading to a fitter, stronger heart without the damaging effect of plaque buildup.
By eating blueberries 3-4 times a week you will significantly reduce your risk of developing heart disease or having a heart attack!
5. BLUEBERRIES HELP YOU TO SHED EXCESS FAT
Blueberries are a fat free, high fiber and water rich snack which is easily digestible, containing only 80 calories per cup.
They contain high levels of the mineral manganese, which improves bone health and helps your body to convert food into energy.
While the high concentration of antioxidants and water alone can help you shed excess fat, it’s the rich source of fiber that keeps you full for hours, reducing your appetite and reducing your overall daily caloric intake, which leads to fat and weight loss.
6. BLUEBERRIES KEEP YOUR BONES STRONG
Iron and zinc are essential for maintaining the strength and elasticity of bones and joints, and blueberries are a rich source of these minerals!
They also contain calcium, phosphorous, magnesium and manganese, all of which contribute to the strength and structure of your bones.
Being a powerfully alkalizing food source also protects your bones; if you body is too acidic, your bones become brittle, releasing calcium to help alkalize the tissue around your organs.
Blueberries also contain high levels of vitamin K, which prevents bone fracture and promotes faster healing of injured or broken bones.
7. BLUEBERRIES IMPROVE YOUR EYESIGHT
Research has shown that blueberries are able to prevent and slow the development of ocular problems such as visual loss, cataracts and infections. The high levels of antioxidants combined with the rich concentration of vitamins A, C, E and K as well as the zinc, phosphorous and selenium will result in better eyesight, better eye health and the prevention of age-related ocular challenges!
8. BLUEBERRIES PREVENT CANCER
The antioxidants which give blueberries their deep, rich color are also an excellent source of nutrients which repair the cells in your body, thereby fighting free radical damage and preventing cancer cells from thriving.
These powerful antioxidants also reduce inflammation, inhibit tumor growth and create an alkaline environment in your body where cancer cells cannot survive!
Vitamin A and C strengthen the immune system, helping your body to fight off any diseased or damaged cells and restoring you to full health in no time!
9. BLUEBERRIES LOWER BLOOD PRESSURE
Blueberries are low in sodium and are an excellent source of potassium, a mineral which serves as a fluid balancer and natural diuretic. They are also a low GI (Glycemic Index) fruit, which prevents sugar and energy spikes that disrupt your blood health.
The calcium and magnesium locked in blueberries lead to improved circulation and naturally decrease blood pressure, leading to a much healthier and happier you!
Eat one cup of this super food just 3 to 4 times a week, enjoying the natural decrease of high blood pressure, as well as improvement in water retention and circulation!
10. BLUEBERRIES REDUCE WRINKLES
Our skins are damaged on a daily basis by exposure to the sun, pollution and stress, which reduces the level of collagen produced in our bodies. Collagen is the skin’s support system, a naturally occurring substance that helps to retain elasticity and a youthful glow. By eating blueberries, you are giving you body a boost of vitamin C, which promotes the production of collagen!
This process smoothes wrinkles, improves skin texture and gives you a much younger looking skin, filled with vitamins and minerals and life itself!