TOP 5 HEALTH BENEFITS FROM EATING A BLUEBERRY

By rjoachim | January 18, 2023
“Studies show that they help protect against aging, cancer and damage to your DNA.” A standard serving of 100 grams (3/4 of a cup) provides 65 calories and 15 grams of carbohydrates.Stress isn’t good for your body — especially oxidative stress. This kind of stress occurs due to the presence of molecules called free radicals. Produced naturally as a result of metabolism or because of exposure to pollution, cigarette smoke and alcohol, free radicals don’t get along with your body. In fact, they damage cells.Antioxidants are key to reducing the impact of oxidative stress. “Antioxidants create a barrier or a shield around the cell to help protect it from being damaged,” Zumpano explains. As it happens, blueberries are very high in antioxidants — specifically anthocyanins, which are also found in chokeberries and elderberries.

According to a 2004 study, a cup of cultivated blueberries (berries grown to eat) has 9,019 antioxidants. Lowbush (or wild) blueberries have 13,427 total antioxidants per cup.In addition to being low in calories, blueberries are nutrient-dense. They’re good sources of vitamin C and vitamin K, as well as manganese.
A cup of blueberries provides the following recommended daily intake of vitamins and minerals:
Vitamin C: 24%.
Vitamin K: 36%.
Manganese: 25%.
Dietary fiber: 14%.
Vitamin C is known for boosting your immune system and fortifying other body functions, while vitamin K helps your blood clot properly. Manganese, meanwhile, can also help with blood clotting, while promoting bone and muscle strength.A 2019 study of people living with metabolic syndrome found that eating blueberries daily had a positive impact. Although insulin resistance was unchanged, people saw a reduction in other areas. “Eating blueberries helps reduce blood pressure in people who have metabolic syndrome because it helps the body produce more nitric oxide, which relaxes your blood vessels,” Zumpano notes.Blueberries are also a versatile fruit suitable for meals at any time. You can enjoy them in cereal, oatmeal, smoothies or salads. “Organic frozen berries can be a little less expensive,” Zumpano says. “You can put them in hot oatmeal and let them defrost allowing their juices to release natural sweetness and flavor. Throw them in a smoothie, or just snack on them frozen for a refreshing snack for great ways to enjoy them.”
The Health Benefits of Blueberries
Posted in Diet & Nutrition