5 Reasons to Eat More Blueberries
Packing only 85 calories per cup, blueberries are as good for your waistline as they are for your body. They contain loads of health-boosting vitamins and nutrients, such as potassium, vitamin C, vitamin B6, protein and fiber. What’s more, they can ward off disease and help us remain in tip-top shape. And the best part? They’re available year-round in both fresh and frozen varieties.
Blueberries are a low-calorie, high-nutrient powerhouse food that can help keep health on track. Not only is regular consumption of blueberries part of a healthy, low-fat diet, but blueberries can also help maintain heart health, may help prevent cancer, increase cognitive function and maintain gut health.
Healthy Heart
Eating a cup of blueberries reduces the risk of cardiovascular disease by 15%, reports ScienceDaily. This is especially true for individuals who are at risk of cardiovascular disease, such as those with high blood pressure or high cholesterol. But how? Research showed that daily consumption of blueberries improved vascular function and reduced arterial stiffness, thus reducing the risk of developing cardiovascular disease.
Cancer Prevention
Blueberries contain phytochemicals, which help protect cells against chronic inflammation. Unchecked inflammation can make cancer growth more likely in at-risk individuals. By reducing inflammation, blueberries help prevent cancer. They can also slow down cancer growth, says U.S. News.
Sharper Brain
Want to keep that brain sharp? Eat a cup of blueberries per day. According to research, blueberry consumption improved the cognitive function of older adults participating in a randomized, double-blind study. Earlier research showed similar outcomes in rodents. As a result, scientists believe that eating blueberries can delay or mitigate cognitive decline caused by aging.
Gut Health
Containing 3.6 grams of fiber per serving, blueberries are great for digestive health. Consuming 20-30 grams of fiber per day helps keep the gut moving. Additionally, blueberries are great for promoting healthy bacterial growth in the gut and reducing inflammation, which will make even grumpy bellies happy.
Healthy Weight
Since they are high in fiber and low in calories, blueberries help us feel satisfied without making us go over our daily caloric goal. Since they’re sweet, they can also help satiate cravings. All of these benefits can help us lose weight or maintain a current healthy weight.
Often touted as a superfood, blueberries offer a host of health benefits, including cardiovascular support, cancer prevention, increased cognitive function and improved gut health. Eating blueberries in place of sugary, fatty foods can also help with weight goals. To get results, eat blueberries three times per week or more — 1 cup per day is ideal.
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