Blueberries

Blueberries

Just the saying the word makes you want to have a handful of juicy, sweet berries.  I probably eat blueberries at least 5 times a week!  It's a great way to start the day, oatmeal with blueberries, raspberries, ground flax seed, chia gel, cinnamon, organic honey and a handful of walnuts or pumpkin seeds.

Did you know that blueberries are one of the few fruit native to North America?  Native Indians enjoyed fresh blueberries for hundreds of years before anyone else even knew they existed.  It is crazy that the United States cultivates and supplies over half of the world's blueberries on a global basis.  It is important when buying, always try to purchase organic.  When not in season it is best to buy organic frozen blueberries.

Here are five reasons to eat more:

*Blueberries protect against cancer, heart disease and diabetes. They are full of antioxidants

*Blueberries turn back aging. Being full of antioxidants they reduce oxidative stress which is huge contributor of decreased organ function.

*Blueberries lower your blood pressure. 

*Blueberries protect against cognitive decline. Increased consumption of berries help to increase the clearing of toxic proteins from the brain. Which helps with Parkinson's and Alzheimer's disease.

*Blueberries are good for your bowels and bladder. Containing plenty of soluble and insoluble fibers they are very useful in treating constipation and diarrhea.  They also contain Tannins which are astringents which helps to reduce the ability of e.coli to adhere to the bladder wall.

Nutritional Value: 

36% RDA of Vitamin K 

25% RDA of Manganese

24% RDA of Vitamin C

14% RDA of Fiber

Here is a easy way to enjoy some delicious  blueberries:

Blueberry Chia Pudding:

1/2 cup chia seeds.

1 1/2 cups of almond milk.

1 tsp. agave nectar or honey.

1 tsp. vanilla extract.

1 tsp. cinnamon.

1/4 cup fresh or frozen blueberries.

Add all together in glass or ceramic container.

Stir until well mixed.

Refrigerate overnight.

ENJOY!  

You can even grow your own blueberries at home, see: How to Grow Blueberries at Home

If you want to learn more of the benefits: Beautiful Boosting Blueberries

Have a great week.

Be kind.

Judd