6 ways blueberries boost your health – plus our favourite recipes

By Kathryn Chung

6 ways blueberries boost your health – plus our favourite recipes
Blueberry season is upon us and that means fresh smoothies, tasty breakfasts and delicious desserts. But there's lots more to these little berries than their taste. 

We speak to clinical nutritionist Jessica Sepel, owner of JS Health, to find out the interesting facts about blueberry nutrition and what kinds of blueberries offer the best health benefits.

What are some of the key health benefits of blueberries?

  • Packed with antioxidants. “Dark coloured fruit and vegetables such as blueberries are rich in polyphenols (another type of antioxidant), which can help support neurological function,” says Sepel.
  • Support cardiovascular health. “Blueberries and anthocyanins benefit cardiovascular health through their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects,” says Sepel. “They have a positive effect on total lipid levels.”
  • Reduce risk of disease. “Blueberries contain a specific antioxidant known as anthocyanins, which help to reduce the risk and biomarkers for disease.”
  • Boost immunity and collagen production. “Due to blueberries being so rich in the antioxidant vitamin C, this helps support immunity and facilitate collagen production,” explains Sepel.
  • Reduce cell damage. Blueberries also contain flavonoids, she says, a type of antioxidant that can help reduce damage to cells and support your immune system.

In terms of nutrition, does it matter what types of blueberries you eat?

Whilst their in their peak season (August – November) and packed full of nutrients and flavour, Sepel says it’s best to buy fresh and/or organic blueberries if possible.

“Towards the end of the season, I’d recommend buying blueberries in bulk and freezing them so that you can still use them in different foods such as smoothies, granola bowls and breakfast muffins,” says Sepel.

3 delicious blueberry recipes

Blueberry Mousse Pots

Banana, Blueberry and Almond Pancakes

Blueberry, Lemon Myrtle and Labne Salad Recipe

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