Melissa from Fresh Start, fruit talk, topic of the day; Blueberries Blueberries are the number one fruit for helping to protect cells from free radical damage and aging because they contain great youth-preserving antioxidants which stave off many conditions and boost immunity. They also prevent the growth of unfriendly bacteria to keep the gut clean and healthy. Antioxidant King According to research, one average serving of blueberries provides as many antioxidants as five average servings of broccoli, apples or carrots and ranks top in antioxidant activity compared to 40 other fresh fruit and vegetables. They get their blue colour from anthocyanins whcih are potent antioxidants that combat cell damage, improve circulation and help protect against heart problems, stroke, cancer and gum disease and to enhance eyesight. Ellagic acid, another antioxidant found in blueberries, and the compound resveratrol, are also thought to help to prevent the development of cancer. I can hear the stampede to the supermarket! The proanthocyanidins (a type of flavonoid) contained in blueberries increase the potency of its vitamin C content, so supporting collagen, which helps to keep the skin elastic. They also protect the eyes and blood vessels. Another useful compound in blueberries is pterostilbene, which has anti-diabetic and cholresterol-lowering properties and made reduce cognitive decline. Blueberries are a great source of agents lethal to bacteria, especially E.coli, and are a common folk remedy for diarrhoea and stomach upsets. Rich in tannins, they have an anti-inflammatory effect on the bodys tissues, and are said to kill microbes and fight the bacteria that cause urinary tract infections. In addition they are a traditional remedy for the treatment of coughs and colds. These little wonder berries may also aid in the reversal of neurodegenerative symptoms such as loss of balance and co-ordination. They help to improve brain function and have been found to protect against dementia, and to preserve memory and learning ability in old age. Phew! Thats quite a lot of power packed in those little beauties. And I bet you didnt know that used topically the fuit acid in blueberries acts as a gentle astringent and peeling agent! So whats in them? Vitamins B2, B3, B5, B6, C, E, K, folic acid, beta-carotene, calcium, iron, magnesium, manganese, phosphorus, potassium, selenium, zinc, flavanoids, ellagic acid, tannins Top ways to incorporate blueberries in to your diet 1) EAT THEM! – As nature intended, straight from the bush (easy to grow your own), or staright from the punnet. Always wash them if not organic. 2) IN SMOOTHIES – Juicing them makes for an expensive juice and youll need a ton of them to get anything out, so add them to the blender with whatever else youve juiced. 3) SPRINKLED – on salad, desserts, crackers, porridge ... whatever takes your fancy. Wishing you health and vitality Melissa
Posted on: Fri, 07 Mar 2014 09:13:18 +0000
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