The Huge Impact of Little Blueberries

Blueberries are a popular fruit. But, do people really know all of the health benefits that come from them? After all, these berries have become more popular in recent years.

Well, there are definite reasons why people should run right down to their local grocery store and pick up a package of blueberries. Blueberries are loaded with many health benefits. They are a good source of fiber, vitamins A and C, folate and potassium. But, that's not all. One of the things that make them so great, are their antioxidant quality. Antioxidants help the body fight off "free radicals", which are harmful by-products of metabolism. By helping the body fight off "free radicals," diseases such as cancer do not stand a chance. According to blueberry.org, researchers at the USDA Human Nutrition Center (HNRCA) have found that blueberries rank #1 in antioxidant activity when compared to 40 other fresh fruits and vegetables.

Blueberries have also been known to have anti-aging qualities. This discovery came from a HNCRA experiment on lab rats. The study found that after feeding the rats blueberries, there was a slower deterioration of their mental capacity in memory, balance and coordination.

The USDA has also found that blueberries may reduce cholesterol. The cholesterol fighting quality has actually been found in the blueberry extract, rather than the berry itself. It contains pterostilbene, a cholesterol fighting agent that may be just as effective as the popular anti-cholesterol drugs.

Blueberries have a great impact on maintaining healthy vision, according to orchardofhealth.com. They have been used in Japan for this very benefit, and have been dubbed the "vision fruit." Blueberries contain a lot of anthocyanin, which actually gives the berry its blue color. More importantly, there has been research on anthocyanin as a compound that improves vision and prevents tired eyes.

Blueberries help prevent urinary-tract infection. The berry contains compounds that bind to the bacteria that cause the infection. The compounds prevent the bacteria from adhering to the cells that line the walls of the urinary tract, according to research conducted at Rutgers University in New Jersey.

Blueberries also have the potential to fight heart disease, stroke and diabetes. Researchers are still discovering its wonderful properties.

North America produces 90 percent of blueberries in the world. This fruit is truly a jack of all trades. They have undeniable health benefits that can save lives. It's better to eat them fresh, however, the frozen wild variety packs just as much power. One half cup serving of blueberries equals one fruit serving.