The blueberry is small, but mighty. In a produce world where antioxidants put you in the popular crowd, the blueberry is pretty much prom queen. A USDA study at Tufts University declared the blueberry #1 in antioxidant activity, when compared to 40 other fruits and vegetables. And, according to a study on oxygen radical absorbance capacity [a.k.a. how potent are your antioxidants?], the blueberry scored 2400 per 100 grams, more than what most fruits and vegetables provide in 5 servings. [USDA Human Nutrition Research Center of Aging in Boston]
If you're wondering what antioxidants are, you should probably ask a scientist. But, for a simplified idea, imagine a war between molecules. Free radicals [from bad habits, environments, and genes] are the angry bad guys who want to damage innocent cells. Antioxidants are the good guys who work to slow down and stop those radicals.
Now, if you're wondering what antioxidants can do for you, here's a list [in alphabetical order]: anti-aging for brain and skin, anti-inflammatory, better balance, coordination, and memory, efficient immune system, enhanced effects of vitamin C, eye health, good digestion, lower bad cholesterol, protection against heart disease and obesity, reduced cancer risk, relief for arthritic symptoms, stabilized body tissue, strengthened veins and vascular system, stronger bones.
Here are some of the good guys:
Anthocyanins = dark blue potent pigment that improves eye health, strengthens the vascular system and body tissue, and enhances the effects of Vitamin C
Ellagic Acid = phytochemical that prevents cell damage
Epicatechin = prevents UTI's
Kaempferol = flavanoid that reduces risk for ovarian cancer
Pterostilbene = lowers bad cholesterol, some say as effectively as commercial drugs
To read more about this health information, and recent studies about the benefits of the blueberry, look at our In the News page.