The blueberry is a tiny fruit, but its benefits in our body are immense. Purple in color – despite its English name being “blueberry” -, the fruit is still not very popular in Spain, with the United States being its main producer and consumer.
Rich in antioxidants, it has a high content of polyphenols (molecules that protect cell walls, increasing the plasma's antioxidation capacity). This substance is present both in the skin and in the pulp.
The fruit is rich in B vitamins and vitamins A, C and E. It is also an excellent source of fiber to add to your diet.
Its color is due to the anthocyanins present in its bark. Studies show that this substance helps fight cancer cells and even prevent vision problems such as cataracts and glaucoma.
By helping to protect our cells, blueberries have been associated with the fight against diseases such as Alzheimer's disease and other conditions linked to human aging.
A cup of the fruit is able to ward off fatigue, improve memory and even motor coordination.
It has a low glycemic index, making it an excellent fruit for people with diabetes. Also, according to a study conducted by the US National Institutes of Health, adding blueberries to our diet can reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes.
It prevents urinary tract infections as the proanthocyanidins in blueberry inhibit the adhesion of bacteria to the cells of this part of the body. It reduces bad cholesterol, blood lipid levels and even blood pressure in hypertensive patients.
It is recommended to consume 30 to 50 grams of the fruit daily. However, people allergic to salicylic acid, present in aspirin, should avoid blueberry, as it has a high content of this substance.
It can be consumed fresh, frozen, dehydrated, in the form of juice, tea, syrup, jam, with cereals or fruit salad.
Its benefits are numerous and its flavor is unique and delicious. Why not add this little fruit to your diet?
