As July rolls around, so too does the start of the Australian fresh blueberry season. Since last year, breaking research from the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition has found a significant correlation between lowering heart disease and fresh blueberries. The double-blind, placebo-controlled study concluded that eating 150g of fresh blueberries daily decreases the risk of heart disease by up to 15%.
The research analysed the benefits of blueberries on Metabolic Syndrome – a condition affecting one-third of westernised adults. Around 30% of Australians suffer from this, and are consequently two to four times more likely to develop heart disease.
Dr Peter Curtis, study co-author, said: “We found eating one cup of (fresh) blueberries per day resulted in sustained improvements in vascular function and arterial stiffness.’ Both of these directly affect a person’s likelihood of developing heart disease.
“This study is not unique in its appraisal of fresh blueberries – adding to multiple previous studies showing both brain and heart benefits from the fruit. The benefits all stem from ‘anthocyanins,’ which are what gives blueberries their stunning colour.
“The simple and attainable message is to consume one cup of blueberries daily to improve cardiovascular health,” concluded Dr Curtis.
More health benefits of blueberries
In addition to caring for your heart;
They defend the body from cancer: the high vitamin C and E content and important antioxidants blueberries carry help fight free radicals which are connected to colon and ovarian cancer.
They boost vision: blueberries enhance the creation of retinal purple, which is essential for healthy vision. They also possess high levels of anthocyanin, which is associated with boosted night vision and reduced eye strain.
They promote brain function: by enabling enhanced levels of oxygen to reach the brain, blueberries boost brain power. Their compounds can prevent the onset of various brain diseases, including dementia and Alzheimer’s.
They battle post-natal depression: blueberries contain the amino acids tyrosine and tryptophan, which fight post-birth protein that minimises positive hormones .
They fight ageing: the antioxidants and nutrients in blueberries carry powerful anti-ageing properties. Minimising the onset of wrinkles, protecting from sun damage and promoting balance, blueberries help the skin to stay firm and healthy.
They combat diabetes: blueberries contain pterostilebene and myrtillin, which can reduce excess blood sugar. They are also high in phytonutrients and low in sugar.
Try this recipe: Blueberry Albert Squares