Blueberries

Blueberries are a favorite treat at our house. In fact we have planted 8 bushes in our backyard. We are hoping to reap the benefits of lots of fruit this year with extra to put in the freezer.
These berries are well known for their antioxidant protection. They contain high quantities of anthocyanins which make them blue. These compounds have "P-vitamin" functions in humans, strengthening capillaries and peripheral circulation. Flavonoids are water soluble plant pigments. They support health by strengthening capillaries and other connective tissue, and some function as
anti-inflammatory, antihistaminic, and antiviral agents. USDA scientists Dr. Ronald Prior and Dr. Guohua Cao have demonstrated that these wonderful berries contain the highest antioxidant capacity of the 40 different fruits and vegetables tested. "The antioxidant characteristics in blueberries appear to be due largely to anthocyanins," said Dr. Prior, whose has been a key researcher in the role of antioxidants. The wild variety contain one of the highest anthocyanin levels of berries commercially available in North America."
These berries are a source of
Vitamin A,
Vitamin C,
folate and
potassium.
Based on data from the USDA Human Nutrition Research Center on Aging (Boston, MA), these berries are among the fruits with the highest antioxidant activity. Using the ORAC (Oxygen Radical Absorbance Capacity)test, researchers have shown that a serving of fresh blueberries provides more antioxidant activity than many other fresh fruits and vegetables.
Blueberry Antioxidant
Blueberries Health Benefits
The health benefits of these powerful, antioxidant rich berries include improved memory and reduced oxidation. Oxidation leads to aging and degenerative diseases, like macular degeneration. To read more click here:
Health Benefits of Blueberries
For More Information:
Go from Blueberries to Foods High in Antioxidants
Go from Blueberries to Macular Degeneration
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