The Many Health Benefits of Blueberries

Blueberries are a summer fruit staple. They add a splash of vibrant color to fruit salads and desserts, and a punch of sweet, yet tart flavor. But did you know that blueberries also provide an excellent source of vitamin C, fiber, manganese, and antioxidant properties.

Research shows a serving of blueberries can contain as much as 25% of our daily requirement of vitamin C, which helps promote a healthy immune system as well as helping to maintain healthy gums and the absorption of iron. Blueberries also contain fiber, which helps support heart health and healthy cholesterol levels, as well as healthy digestion.

In addition, "according to the USDA database of the antioxidant activity of selected foods (ORAC values), blueberries rank among the highest on a per serving basis," as noted by the Nutrient Data Laboratory Beltsville Human Nutrition Research Center (BHNRC) Agricultural Research Service (ARS).[1]

For more information about the many health benefits of incorporating blueberries into your daily diet, check out the below sites. Then comment with your favorite blueberry recipes, collection and preserving tips!!

For general information and research links, visit the U.S. Highbush Blueberry Council: http://www.blueberrycouncil.com/nutrition.php

"12 Surprising Reasons to Eat More Blueberries": http://www.care2.com/greenliving/12-surprising-reasons-to-eat-more-blueberries.html

"Blueberries: Fountain of Youth" from Mother Earth News: http://www.motherearthnews.com/grow-it/blueberries-fountain-of-youth.aspx

For blueberry recipes like whole-wheat blueberry bars, visit the Eating Well website here: http://www.eatingwell.com/recipes/whole_wheat_blueberry_bars.html


References
[1] Accessed online 8/16/10 at http://www.blueberrycouncil.com/nutrition.php