Blueberries Benefits

Aside from a host of health benefits, blueberries also contain anthocyanins, which are potent antioxidants. These compounds are responsible for preventing oxidative stress and cellular damage. They may even extend the life expectancy of people suffering from Parkinson’s disease. In this article, we’ll explore some of these benefits. Listed below are some of the most common benefits of blueberries. So, what’s all the fuss about?

Anthocyanins reduce inflammation

The antioxidant properties of blueberries may help to prevent age-related cognitive decline, reduce the risk of chronic diseases, and extend the life span. In fact, it has been suggested that blueberry consumption may reduce the age of the brain by 2.5 years. Deficiency in anthocyanins can also lead to mental fatigue, poorer recovery after exercise, and cognitive problems. The antioxidants found in blueberries may also reduce the effects of neuroinflammation, and a healthy diet should include a good supply of them.

Lower blood pressure

Studies have shown that daily consumption of blueberries can reduce blood pressure and arterial stiffness. The increase in nitric oxide may be responsible for the effect. The results suggest that blueberries may be a natural alternative to conventional medicine. In the present study, a placebo group was also given blueberry powder. This study is the first to test the effect of blueberry powder on blood pressure in humans. It is important to note that these results are not conclusive, but can be helpful for those with high blood pressure.

Improve memory

Recent research shows that blueberry supplementation can improve memory in older adults. The fruit may have an anti-inflammatory effect on the brain, and studies show that it can reduce depressive symptoms, boost glucose levels, and improve blood flow in the brain. Those benefits may make blueberry supplements more attractive for people who are concerned about memory decline. And, if you want to enjoy blueberries’ health benefits, try these recipes. They may boost your memory, too!

Protect against oxidation damage

The antioxidants found in blueberries protect the body from free radicals that can damage cellular structures. Over time, these free radicals can lead to aging, disease, and cancer. Researchers believe that the main anti-oxidant compounds found in blueberries, called anthocyanins, are responsible for the antioxidant properties of blueberries. Although further studies are needed to confirm these claims, the fruit’s anti-oxidant capacity is already high.

Improve insulin sensitivity

The use of bioactive components in blueberries can improve insulin sensitivity. In a recent study, blueberry bioactives improved insulin sensitivity in obese insulin-resistant men and women. The study, which involved 32 healthy, non-diabetic individuals, used a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled design. The researchers also evaluated the adherence of the participants to nine key components of the Mediterranean diet, including blueberry intake.

Reduce age-related cognitive decline

One study showed that blueberry products could reduce errors during a task switching test, a test used to assess executive function. Furthermore, the blueberry group was more active and spent less time sitting than the control group, which accounted for the reduced errors.

Performance on the California Verbal Learning test was also significantly improved in the blueberry group. But how do blueberries help prevent age-related cognitive decline? One way to improve memory performance is by increasing the amount of blueberry consumption in the diet.

Improve eyesight

Blueberries are full of antioxidants, which protect the eyes from damage caused by UV light, pollution, and ageing. These rays damage cells in the eye and skin and can lead to cell death or even cancer. Anthocyanins, found in blueberries, protect the retina from the damaging effects of UV and blue light. They may even prevent the development of cataracts, a leading cause of treatable blindness.