Health Benefits Blueberries

Blueberries are literally bursting with nutrients and flavor, yet very low in calories. Blueberries came out on top, rating highest in their capacity to destroy free radicals.

• An Antioxidant Powerhouse
• A Visionary Fruit
• A Better Brain with Blueberries
• Laboratory studies published in the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry show that phenolic compounds in blueberries can inhibit colon cancer cell proliferation and induce apoptosis (programmed cell death).

• Bottomline: eating blueberries may reduce colon cancer risk.
• Protection against Ovarian Cancer

Among their rich supply of phytonutrients, blueberries include a flavonoid called kaempferol. In addition to blueberries, foods richest in kaempferol include tea (nonherbal), onions, curly kale, leeks, spinach, and broccoli.

Blueberries can help relieve both diarrhea and constipation. Blueberries also promote urinary tract health. Blueberries contain the same compounds found in cranberries that help prevent or eliminate urinary tract infections. Cultivation of blueberries was spearheaded by a botanist at the United States Department of Agriculture who pioneered research into blueberry production. For the most antioxidants, choose fully ripened berries:

Always check berries before storing and remove any damaged berries to prevent the spread of mold. Before freezing, wash, drain and remove any damaged berries. Baby foods containing berries are bereft of anthocyanins, the water-soluble plant pigments responsible not only for the blue, purple, and red color of berries, but also for many of their health benefits. Anthocyanins are found in fresh and frozen berries, but not in processed foods.

A study published in the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry found anthocyanins were almost undetectable in canned foods, bread, cereals, and baby foods containing berries, even in baby foods prepared from fruits high in anthocyanins, such as blueberries.

To give your children the full health benefits of berries, purchase fresh or frozen berries and purée them.