Blueberries are one of the most delicious and healthiest fruits. They are chiefly produced in the North America, Europe, Asia and belong to the Ericaceae family. They are sweet in taste and equally beneficial for the body systems. They contain several Vitamins (Vitamin A, C, E, K, B-Complex), pigments, antioxidants and minerals (Manganese, Zinc, Copper, Iron, Selenium). These have been tagged as ‘Superfoods’ due to their high nutritional value.
Here Are 15 Amazing Health Benefits Of Blueberries
Aids In Weight Loss
Blueberries are rich in soluble fiber and low in calories, and are very efficient in helping an obese person to lose those extra pounds. The fiber of this fruit gets dissolved in water and makes the person feel full for a long time.
Controls Blood Pressure
Consumption of blueberries improves the cardiovascular health. They contain the pigment anthocyanin which is a vasodilator. It dilates the major arteries of the body and this helps in controlling the raised blood pressure levels in a hypertensive individual.
Controls Many Heart Diseases
Due to the presence of Anthocyanin, the cholesterol levels in the blood are under control. Cholesterol may pose a risk of getting clogged in the blood vessels and may obstruct the blood flow, leading to infarct or stroke. Blueberries digest the cholesterol and maintains a proper blood lipid profile.
Improves The Immune System
Incorporating the blueberries in the regular diet boost the immune system. It wards off the pathogenic microorganisms from the body and defends the body from their attack.
Reduces Acne And Blemishes
For an oily skin, the occurrence of acne, blemish, and their left marks are an often problem. Blueberries can help reduce this because they have a high concentration of Salicylates. Salicylic acid is widely used topical products for acne managment. It has the ability to open clogged pores of the oil secreting sebaceous glands of the skin and also controls the amount of oil concentration on the face.
Controls Signs Of Aging
Free radicals are molecules formed in the body as a result of oxidation. They cause damage to the skin and promote signs of aging like wrinkles and pigmentation. Blueberries are just perfect to control the signs of aging. They have a high concentration of antioxidants, which control the oxidation of free radicals and neutralize their further damage to the skin.
Decreases Signs Of Varicose Veins
With increasing age, some of the long standing individuals develop a condition called as varicose veins which are dilated blood vessels under the skin and makes the skin appear like a spider web. Blueberries can reverse these skin signs by reacting with the free radicals and antagonizing their effect.
Stimulates New Hair Growth
They contain chemicals called as Proanthocyanidins, which help to stimulate the growth of hair by activating the hair follicle cells which begins to form a new hair strand.
Controls Graying Of Hair
They have a high content of Vitamin B12, whose deficiency in the body leads to graying of hair. Therefore blueberries can adequately help control the graying of hair and will allow the hair to retain their natural color.
Controls Urinary Tract Infections
The acidity of blueberries creates an environment difficult for the microorganisms to thrive. It also creates difficulty for the pathogens to bind with the cell lining of the urinary tract. Further, it facilitates their flushing off from the body through the urine.
Lowers The Risk Of Cancer
As a result of oxidation, free radicals cause damage to the DNA of the body cells and may lead to malignancy. Blueberries are known to contain antioxidants, which reverse the effects of free radicals by reacting with them.
Helps Controlling Anemia
They are a rich source of folate and are especially useful in controlling anemia. It helps to stimulate the increased production of new blood cells and thereby keeps away the symptoms like fatigue, irritability, etc. It is also advised in pregnant women to control the fetal growth disorders.
Controls Diabetes
The nutrients in berries are known to control Type 2 Diabetes. They contain a high amount of dietary fiber, which keeps the digestion and metabolism well maintained. Also, the sweet taste of them without the actual high sugar content is another advantage for which they are highly recommended for a diabetic patient.
Improves Vision
Blueberries are a good option to Control the macular degeneration of the eye and thereby helps improve vision and wards off the eye diseases like cataract, etc.
Controls The Signs Of Mental Disability
They are a recommended alternative for keeping away from the signs of mental decline with age like loss of memory, Alzheimer’s, irritation, etc. The Polyphenols of these berries can help reduce the toxins from the brain.
