Berry season is in full swing here in Portland and I am loving it! There is nothing better than fresh berries off the bush or vine to make you feel like summer is here. Last year, I planted two small blueberry bushes in my back yard and I am anxiously waiting for the berries to reach that deep, beautiful purplish-blue color that tells me they are ready. Blueberries are one of my favorite berries because they pack such a nutritional punch.
Blueberries are a low calorie, hydrating delivery system for antioxidants. Each cup has 4 grams of regularity producing fiber and a healthy dose of Vitamin K, necessary for wound healing and bone health.
Blueberries are good for skin health because their high Vitamin C levels help build collagen. Collagen is the main structural component of skin and other connective tissues.
Blueberries high antioxidant levels reduce oxidative damage that can lead to cancer and age-related DNA damage.
Blueberry consumption has been shown to lower blood pressure, especially for post-menopausal women.
Results from a very large study demonstrated a 2.5 year delay in mental aging in its blueberry eating participants.
Consuming blueberries after a hard workout may reduce feelings of soreness by reducing oxidative damage to muscle tissues.
All of these amazing health benefits make me even more excited to chow on all the fresh berries coming out of my backyard. What is your favorite way to eat blueberries?
