Why are blueberries so good for us, you ask? According to the British Columbia Blueberry Council, a scientific study into the health-promoting potential of blueberries continues worldwide, and here are a few of the results:
• They are high in antioxidants (we’ve known that since the late ’90s.)
• The flavonoids in blueberries are also proving to be anti-inflammatory agents. This is signigicant because chronic inflammation is at the heart of many degenerative age-related diseases such as cardiovascular diseases, dementia and Alzheimer’s, diabetes and even obesity.
• Scientists, like Dr. Wilhelmina Kalt of Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, are seeing the promising effects of blueberies in the area of neuroscience. While still in the preliminary stages, studies have found that eating blueberries may have a positive effect on conditions such as parkinson’s disease. Dr. Kalt says clinic trails still need to be conducted before the significance of any of the research is fully understoon.
In the meantime, blueberries are yummy. That in itself is sweet. Dr. Kalt recommends a daily serving for their vitamins, minerals, fibre and disease-fighting potential. Here’s a recipe for a Blueberry Smoothie