Health Benefits of Blueberries

Fruits like blueberries which appear in vibrant colors are rich in antioxidants. The more the color of such fruits, the greater would be the antioxidant value! Blueberries appear in different shades which vary from purple-black to blue to red. These berries are not only a delight to the tongue, but these offer innumerable health benefits to mankind.

Blueberries belong to the genus Vaccinium. The berries owe their origin to North America. But many species native to the North American continent are also grown in New Zealand, Australia and in South America for commercial purposes.

The Experimental Biology conference of 2009 featured a study which tried to prove the medical properties of blueberries. The study claimed that blueberries are responsible for lowering the cholesterol levels and maintaining glucose balance in the blood, thereby minimizing the risks of occurrences of heart diseases and diabetes.  Let us have a look at some of the proven health benefits of blueberries:

• Boost immune system: Blueberries help to boost up the body's immune system and this way these berries enable the body to fight viral and bacterial infections. This can be attributed to the presence of antioxidants like Vitamin A, Vitamin B complex, Vitamin C, Vitamin E, Copper, Iron, Selenium, Zinc and Anthocyanin.
• Neutralize free radicals: The berry gets its color from a blue-red pigment called Anthocyanin. The presence of this pigment bestows these berries the highest antioxidant capacity which keeps the body protected against diseases. The presence of adequate Vitamin C in blueberries also contributes to the same cause.
• Reduces belly fat: Researchers at the University of Michigan have claimed that the consumption of blueberries can lead to a reduction in belly fat. An experiment was conducted with rats as the subjects for a period of 90 days. Scientists mixed a powder enriched with blueberries with the diet offered to the rats. It was observed that the rats had lesser belly fat and lower levels of cholesterol. The study is yet to be implemented with human subjects.
• Fight infections of the urinary tract: The urinary tract is often attacked by infections caused by bacteria like B-Coli. Inflammations and burning sensation during urination are the common symptoms. Blueberries, known for their antibiotic property, are also enriched with heavy molecules which flush away these bacteria out of the urinary tract.
• Cure vision problems: Blueberries contain compounds called anthocyanosides, which are beneficial for the health of your eyes. Age related eye and vision problems like myopia, macular degeneration, hypermetropia, cataract, dryness and other infections can be prevented by the consumption of blueberries which also contain carotenoids, flavonoids apart from Vitamins A and E, zinc and phosphorus which are very essential for the preservation of ocular health.
• Treat neurotic disorders: Blueberries can prevent the degeneration and death of neurons which can affect the nervous system causing diseases like the Alzheimer's disease or dementia. This can be attributed to the presence of Vitamins A, B, C and E, selenium, copper, phosphorus, manganese, potassium, anthocyanin and sodium. In laboratory animal studies, researchers found that diets rich in blueberries significantly improved both the learning capacity and motor skills of aging animals.
• Prevent heart diseases: Blueberries help to keep the cholesterol levels under control and thereby promote heart-health. Presence of antioxidants and the fiber rich content make these berries a natural dietary supplement to deal with heart problems. The berries also aid in building up of muscular strength.
• Aid in digestion and prevents constipation: The fiber in the blueberries prevents constipation while sodium, copper, vitamins, acids and fructose contribute towards improved digestion.
• Prevent and cure cancer: Compounds like Pterostilbene and Ellagic Acid present in blueberries are known for their cancer prevention and healing properties. Anthocyanin, copper and Vitamin C add to the same cause.
• Act as natural anti-depressants: Blueberries would keep you in good mood and these are just natural antidepressants which would eliminate the need to use any medication.

Before picking up blueberries from your grocer, you should check the color of the fruits. Deeper ones are richer in antioxidants and have strong medical properties. Make sure you buy the fresh ones!