Did you know July is National Blueberry month?
In July 2003 The United States of Agriculture proclaimed that July is National Blueberry month in the USA! Let’s celebrate blueberries!
Blueberries are one of my favorite superfoods as they are loaded with antioxidants that help your body stay strong and healthy. They boost your heart health, brain function, protect your body from free radicals, which are unstable molecules that can damage your cells and contribute to aging and diseases, such as heart disease, cancer, diabetes. They are low in calories and high in nutrients, so they make a perfect snack or an addition to your smoothie.
6 Health Benefits of Blueberries
1. Reduce Anxiety
Blueberries are loaded with Vitamin C and can help you feel calmer throughout the day. They are rich in antioxidants that help combat cell damage caused by oxidative stress.
2. Promote Brain Health
The antioxidants called flavonoids in blueberries help with age related memory loss and improve cognitive function.
3. Support Heart Health
Blueberries support the cardiovascular system by regulating cholesterol levels and improving the health of arteries thanks to the antioxidants they contain.
4. Promote Healthy Weight
The high fiber content of blueberries helps you feeling full longer. Next time you reach for a snack, grab some blueberries. Even though fruits are high in sugar, because of their fiber content, the natural sugar is released slowly into your body and will not cause sugar spikes.
5. Help Reduce Your Risk of Diabetes
Blueberries high fiber content can actually help normalize blood sugar levels. Blueberries are packed with nutrients but are low in calories and they may help you loose belly fat, which is an important part of fighting diabetes.
6. Anti-Inflammatory
Blueberries are loaded with flavonoids, minerals and other components that target inflammation and reduce swelling.
Are frozen blueberries as nutritious as fresh ones?
Yes, frozen fruits and vegetables are just as healthy as fresh ones.
Fun Fact: Wild blueberries have two times more antioxidant power than cultivated blueberries. The wild blueberry bushes are so hardy that they can be burned to the ground and will grow back even stronger!
Cool Tip: Use wild blueberries in your muffin as they hold their shape and color when baked.
My favorite morning beverage:
Blueberry Basil Smoothie
Every blender is different in size so here is the ratio I like to use when I make my smoothies:
¾ greens (spinach or baby kale)
¼ blueberries
1-2 basil leaves
1-2 teaspoon flaxseed*
1 scoop of protein powder (optional)
Almond milk or other non-dairy milk of your choice or water (amount depends on how thick you like your smoothie)
*If you have a really good blender, use whole flaxseeds otherwise I recommend using ground flaxseed.
Enjoy!