Blueberries - Call Them The Summer Superfood And Rightly So

All Americans are in love with her! No, we are not talking at all about the seductive model Miranda Kerr, who is just as juicy and sweet as the little bilberry - a mandatory part of the healthy breakfast of the Australian beauty. A major summer competitor in the taste of raspberries and blackberries, blueberries dominate not only the palate of celebrities, but also the daily life of anyone who wants to live in harmony with their body.

Over time, blueberries have gained a reputation as a superfood. And rightly so. Just a handful (about 150 g) of small juicy, indigo blue fruits contain enough fiber, calcium, magnesium, vitamins C, A, E and K needed by the body to feel fit. But that's not all - the delicious summer berry is a powerful source of antioxidants that protect cells and slow down aging.

Their story begins at the dawn of the twentieth century - somewhere in New Jersey, and today blueberries are a traditional part of healthy menus, most often combined with yogurt and cereals. Even Justin Timberlake himself admits that he can't start his day without his favorite blueberry pancake.

Why are they so popular?

Their taste is fascinating. Juicy, sweet, and the calories in 100 grams of fruit - indecently small (57 kcal). At the same time, the anthocyanins (water-soluble color pigments) in blueberries are associated with the improvement of the body's cognitive functions and support memory. Numerous scientific studies show that the consumption of blueberries in the form of food supplements helps children with concentration problems to achieve higher results in school.

Indigo blue summer fruit works to reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease and keeps blood pressure normal, thanks to its high content of polyphenols and, accordingly, powerful antioxidant properties. It is a known fact that antioxidants are the substances that suppress oxidative stress - the main culprit for cell damage and aging. The study shows that a daily serving of 50 grams of blueberries permanently lowers "bad" LDL-cholesterol in overweight people.

Blueberries for health and a slim waist

Regular consumption of blueberries can also play an important role in reducing the risk of developing type 2 diabetes. The flavonoids contained in the fruit are substances that improve metabolism and keep blood sugar levels normal. Flavonoids can also help improve insulin sensitivity in overweight people, as well as established insulin resistance.

With its rich content of manganese and vitamin C, small superfruits protect bones and joints and are a shield in the fight against cancer. The antioxidant effect of blueberries has been shown to help control various inflammations in the body and thus block the spread of cancer cells.

Perhaps the greatest glory and benefit of blueberries in the prevention and treatment  of urinary tract infections caused by the bacterium E.coli. The conditions are unpleasant, often accompanied by burning when urinating, abdominal pain and even blood in the urine. Regular use of blueberries in a healthy diet has been shown to help prevent recurrent urinary tract infections.

Smile!

And last but not least, regular consumption of delicious blueberries makes us happier. Fact! The high content of flavonoids in them chases  depression and brings more smiles in everyday life.