Do You Know the Multi Value of Blueberries?

Blueberries for the Brain, the Eyes, and the Blood

Native to North America, blueberries (Vaccinium spp.) are part of the Ericaceae (heath) family, which includes cranberry, bilberry, mountain laurel, azalea, and rhododendron.

They contain vitamin C, beta-carotene, iron, and potassium, and silicon. They are also a rich source of manganese, which is important in the development of bones and in the metabolism of protein, carbohydrate and fat, and in silicon, which is thought to aid in regenerating the pancreas. Pectin, also found in the berry, binds with cholesterol and helps prevent the build up of plaque in the blood.

The blue hue of blueberry comes from the anthocyanins. These polyphenols contribute to the berry's antioxidant activity which has made blueberry one of the "superfoods" of the last few years. According to the United States Department of Agriculture database of the antioxidant activity of selected foods (ORAC values), blueberries rank among the highest on a per serving basis. Anthocyanins may strengthen blood vessel walls by interacting with their collagen which helps strengthen the capillaries and deter varicose vein development. Myrtillin, another blueberry compound, may help prevent diabetes by lowering blood sugar. Blueberries also reduce platelet aggregation, helping to prevent blood clots.

Animal studies have found that blueberries help protect the brain from oxidative stress and may reduce the effects of age-related conditions such as Alzheimer's disease or dementia. Diets rich in blueberries have also significantly improved both the learning capacity and motor skills of aging animals, making them mentally equivalent to much younger ones. A small preliminary clinical trial of older subjects with mild memory decline found that blueberry juice may help improve memory function (See HC 101053-415).

Since blueberries improve circulation, especially for the eyes, they are helpful for a wide variety of eye complaints, such as cataracts, glaucoma, macular degeneration, and myopia. They are also helpful for people whose work can cause eye strain.

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