9 health benefits of blueberries and 7 reasons to avoid them

The Fruit That’s So Nutritious, It’ll Make You Live Forever

Blueberries were called “star fruits” by North American indigenous peoples because of the five-pointed star shape that is formed at the blossom end of the berry.

Blueberries are a type of berry that is native to North America. They are a popular fruit that is known for their blue color and sweet taste. Blueberries are a good source of vitamins C and K, as well as fiber and antioxidants.

Blueberries can be eaten fresh, frozen, or cooked. They are a popular ingredient in many dishes, such as muffins, pies, and smoothies. Blueberries can also be used to make juice, jam, and syrup.

Here are some of the health benefits of blueberries:

• Good for vision: Blueberries are a good source of anthocyanins, which are antioxidants that can help protect the eyes from damage.
• May help prevent cancer: Blueberries contain antioxidants that may help protect cells from damage that can lead to cancer.
• May help lower cholesterol: Blueberries contain soluble fiber, which can help lower cholesterol levels.
• May boost the immune system: Blueberries contain antioxidants that may help boost the immune system.
• May help improve memory: Blueberries contain antioxidants that may help improve memory and cognitive function.

Blueberries are a healthy and versatile fruit that can be enjoyed by people of all ages. They are a good source of nutrients and have a number of health benefits.

Here are some tips for choosing and storing blueberries:

• Choose blueberries that are firm and have a deep blue color. Avoid blueberries that are soft, bruised, or have mold.
• Blueberries can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 7 days.

Advantages of eating blueberries

1. Anti-oxidant- Blueberries are rich in anti-oxidant called the anthocyanin. Blueberries are rich in vitamin C, A,E, and B complex. It is also rich in minerals such as copper,selenium, zinc and iron. Strengthens immune system ans hence fights infection.

2. Prevents aging – Blueberries neutralises free radicals and prevents aging.

3. Aids in reducing belly fat – Reduces cholesterol, triglycerides and improves insulin sensitivity.

4. Urinary tract- washesoff harmful bacteria and thus improve urinary tract health.

5. Vision: Rich in anthocyanosides, carotenoids, flavonoids and various other vitamins required to preserve vision.

6. Brain: contains vitamins and minerals that can preserve brain health and prevent Alzheimer`s.

7. Heart health : Rich in anti oxidants that can dissolve bad cholesterol. It can also strengthen the cardiac muscles.

8. Digestion: sodium, fructose, copper, vitamins and acids in blueberries aid digestion.

9. Cancer: Great source of anti-oxidants and compounds like pterostilbene, that can fight cancer. Source: http://www.womenfitness.net/blueberries.htm

Interactions of eating blueberries

1. Blueberries can lower blood glucose levels and can interact with blood sugar medications. Source: http://www.webmd.com/vitamins-supplements/ingredientmono-1013-BLUEBERRY.aspx?activeIngredientId=1013&activeIngredientName=BLUEBERRY

2. Blueberries can interact with analgesics and anti – inflammatory drugs Source: https://www.google.co.in/url?sa=t&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=web&cd=4&cad=rja&uact=8&ved=0CDoQFjAD&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpherbal.com%2Fpublic%2Fuser_data%2Ffiles%2F_intera%25C3%25A7%25C3%25A3o%2520medicam_%2520plantas2.pdf&ei=irS1U-aFN8iLuASZqIH4BA&usg=AFQjCNFRgVKTDVFZzWP5eOGNvNEeMFYizA&sig2=2k4vi8PUGa6uKTfJTfDiJw

3. Blueberries can interact with absorption and metabolism of anthocyanins Source: http://jn.nutrition.org/content/132/7/1865.full

4. Blue berries can interact and lessen carbohydrate absorption.

5. Blueberries interact with estrogen.

6. Blueberries interact with transcription factor Nrf2 and increases level of anti-oxidant enzymes.

7. Blueberries can interact with spirulina and vinegar Source: http://examine.com/supplements/Blueberry/

8. Flavonoids from blueberries can permeate blood-brain barrier. Source: http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0891584904006355 http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/12641740

Health conditions to avoid blueberries

1. Blueberries can lower blood glucose levels and hence diabetic people should take blueberries with caution. Source: http://www.webmd.com/vitamins-supplements/ingredientmono-1013-BLUEBERRY.aspx?activeIngredientId=1013&activeIngredientName=BLUEBERRY

2. Patients with vitiligo should avoid taking blueberries as they contain the depigmenting agent called hydroquinone. Source: http://health.howstuffworks.com/skin-care/problems/medical/vitiligo4.htm

3. Blueberries are rich in oxalates and hence should be avoided by people with fibromyalgia. Source: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/health/article-2187890/Ditch-healthy-berries-beat-muscle-pain-The-eating-plan-helped-cure-aches-pains.html

4. Blueberries contain high level of salicylates and hence should be avoided by people with salicylate sensitivity.

5. Blueberries are rich in fiber and hence should be avoided in fibre intolerant conditions such as the irritable bowel syndrome and spastic colon. Source: http://www.livestrong.com/article/542462-health-risks-of-blueberries/

6. Oxalates in blueberries can cause calcium stones. Hence people with untreated kidney and gall bladder disorders should avoid blueberries Source: http://www.diethealthclub.com/therapeutic-value-of-different-foods/fruits/blueberries.html

7. Blueberries are rich in oxalates that can inhibit iron absorption. Hence should be used with caution by people who have iron deficiency. Source: http://www.irondisorders.org/diet/

Photo by veeterzy: https://www.pexels.com/photo/blueberry-fruit-on-gray-container-70862/

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