8 Surprising Benefits Of Blueberries
Like other wild fruits, blueberries are distinguished by their high antioxidant content, but also by their anticarcinogenic and anti-inflammatory properties.
Blueberries are small fruits that come from a forest shrub, of the genus Vaccinium. There are no less than 400 different species.
They are native to North America. The United States is therefore logically one of the largest producers and consumers of these fruits.
Blueberries stand out for their special flavor, which is very popular in gastronomy for the preparation of jellies, cakes, wines and many other recipes.
However, their content of essential nutrients is also very important. If we consume them on a regular basis, they bring us many benefits.
Indeed, despite their small size, it is one of the foods that contains the most antioxidants. These are substances necessary to prevent and slow down the degeneration caused by free radicals.
In addition, they provide us with vitamins and minerals, which promote the prevention and treatment of many diseases.
As many of you do not understand all the benefits of blueberries, we will present to you, in the rest of this article, their 8 main properties.
1. Anti-carcinogenic properties
The powerful antioxidants contained in blueberries have the property of reducing the risk of developing various types of cancer.
These substances protect our cells from damage caused by free radicals and toxins in the environment, two substances that cause tumors to develop.
Blueberries are also rich in folic acid. It is a nutrient that helps us repair and synthesize our DNA. It also allows us to prevent the mutation of malignant cells.
2. They strengthen our bones and teeth
The essential minerals in these berries are helpful in protecting our bone density and the health of our teeth.
Consuming blueberries on a regular basis helps us prevent osteoporosis and infections that affect dental health.
In fact, they are recommended to improve the absorption of calcium and vitamin D, because they contain:
- Minerals (potassium, iron, magnesium, zinc and manganese)
- Vitamin K
3. They protect our heart health
As we have just seen, blueberries contain significant amounts of potassium and magnesium. Indeed, these are two essential minerals that help us regulate the inflammatory processes in our heart. The aim is to reduce the risk of heart disease.
These nutrients balance the fluids present in our tissues. They also reduce the risk of suffering from conditions such as high blood pressure or heart attacks.
Blueberries are also excellent for improving our blood circulation and the oxygenation processes of our heart, thus preventing it from being subjected to too much strain.
4. Prevention of diabetes
People who suffer from blood sugar imbalances or the risk of diabetes should realize that blueberries can be great allies for them.
They contain fibers and antioxidant substances which, when absorbed by our body, lower the level of sugar present in our blood. All this promotes the metabolic processes responsible for transforming this substance into energy.
5. They improve memory
It has been proven that there is a very interesting relationship between the regular consumption of blueberries and the proper functioning of memory.
Everything tells us that their antioxidant compounds minimize oxidative stress and reduce cellular damage that generates cognitive difficulties.
These compounds, added to the vitamins and minerals contained in these fruits, allow better control of the nervous system, improve brain activity and reduce the risk of dementia.
6. They fight urinary tract infections
Thanks to its alkaline power and its high content of antibacterial compounds, natural blueberry juice is very useful in preventing and treating urinary tract infections.
Consuming it alters the environment necessary for microorganisms to proliferate. Its anti-inflammatory effect also calms pain.
It is highly recommended for increasing urine production and improving the processes responsible for removing waste from the kidneys.
7. Blueberries protect our eyesight
These fruits contain carotenoids and significant amounts of vitamin E. Both are necessary to improve visual health and prevent the development of eye conditions.
Their antioxidant power protects the retina and the macula. This therefore reduces the likelihood of developing pathologies such as cataracts or macular degeneration.
Blueberries are also a great natural remedy for mild eye problems, such as redness and dryness brought on by stress.
8. They prevent premature aging
Consuming blueberries on a regular basis is a great way to prevent premature aging, both internally and externally.
Their antioxidant substances decrease the risk of suffering from chronic diseases derived from excessive inflammation. They also slow down cellular damage which accelerates the deterioration of the skin.
Consuming fresh blueberries or natural blueberry juice is excellent for preventing the appearance of wrinkles and blemishes due to age.
All these reasons should push you to consume more blueberries every day! Buy them regularly and enjoy their delicious flavor, you will do your whole body a lot of good.
