Blueberries are perennial flowering plants with blue or purple colored berries. They are classified in the section cyanococcus within the genus vaccinium. Vaccinium also includes cranberries, bilberries, huckleberries and Madeira berries. There are five major types of blueberries: lowbush, northern highbush, southern highbush, rabbiteye and half-high.
Let’s look at some of the powerful health benefits of eating blueberries.
-Strengthen bones (blueberries are rich in calcium, phosphorus, iron, magnesium manganese, vitamin K and zinc which builds bone health).
-Skin care (anthocyanins in blueberries assist in fighting oxidative DNA damage while vitamin C is a big factor in building collagen).
-Lowers bad cholesterol (the high fiber content and antioxidants may help dissolve the LDL bad cholesterol).
-Manage diabetes and protect heart health.
-Weight loss (the high fiber content promotes digestion and weight loss. They also promote satiety and may help reduce belly fat).
-Soothe inflammation (the antioxidants in blueberries have anti inflammatory properties reducing the activity of markers of inflammation).
-Antidepressant (flavonoid rich wild berries help enhance mood and act as an effective depressant).
-Promote digestion.
-Treat urinary tract infections (have certain antibiotic properties and compounds that prevent bacteria from sticking to the bladder walls).
-Eye care and boost immunity (blueberries can delay age related ocular problems due to their antioxidant properties. Also boost your overall immune system and prevent infections).
-Reduce muscle soreness (reduce the muscle soreness and fatigue that occurs after a strenuous exercise or activity).
-Hair care (they help promote hair growth. Mix blueberries and olive oil, apply the blend to hair and roots and rinse with warm water to enhance hair growth).
-Promote detoxification and increase lifespan.
A few side effects include:
Allergy – They may cause a food allergy like itching, swelling or difficulty in breathing.
Blood thinning – The vitamin K content may interfere with blood-thinning medication and result in blood-clot.