The beautifully colored blueberries are an appeal for anyone who has access to the fruit. More important is the fact that the same compounds responsible for the color, also destroy cancer producing free radicals, and prevent tumor cells from growing.
Nutritional Facts of Blueberries
A one cup serving of blueberries is only 83 calories. They contain no saturated fat and are very low in sodium. They provide plenty of fiber and some protein. Blueberries are a potent source of vitamin B6, K and C, and also contain smaller amounts of vitamin A. They are also good sources of iron, manganese and copper.
Health Benefits of Blueberries
- Increase oxygen in blood
- Boost immune system
- Attack and destroy free radicals
- Help with UTI’s
- Reduce age related vision loss
- Improve brain health
- Protection from heart disease
- Healthy digestion
- Help to prevent and destroy cancer cells
Blueberries are revered for their antioxidant capacity, because they have the greatest antioxidant capability of all fresh fruits. These antioxidants work in a variety of ways to boost the immune system, and a strong immune system helps to avert infections and communicable diseases. According to a University of Michigan study, blueberries might aid in eliminating belly fat as well as cardiovascular disease.
A serious bacterial infection like Balantidium coli (b-coli), can build colonies on the walls of urinary tract, which results in inflammation, which leads to burning when urine is passed. Blueberries inhibit bacterial growth and have anti-biotic properties which can prevent urinary tract infections (UTI’s).
The anthocyanosides (bio-chemicals found in certain plants), which are abundant in blueberries, are linked with stalling health issues like cataract, macular degeneration, myopia and other problems related with visual loss.
A number of nutrients in blueberries act together to prevent and heal neurotic problems by putting a stop to the death and degeneration of neurons, brain cells and by building the central nervous system health. The berries are also credited with averting Alzheimer’s disease.
How to Make a Blueberry and Maca Smoothie
- 1 cup blueberries
- 2 tablespoons maca powder
- ½ cup yoghurt
- ½ cup water (according to desired consistency)
Easy! Just whack all these great ingredients in a blender and flip the on switch….Voila.
You might also like to add cinnamon or honey for additional flavor.