Woman's Day
New research from the University of Cincinnati indicates that healthy antioxidants found in the berries may help to ward off the effects of Alzheimer’s disease.
Each participant in the study suffered from mild cognitive impairment and was aged 68 or older; they were given either a freeze-dried blueberry powder or a placebo powder to take once a day for four months.
Dr Robert Krikorian, lead researcher, said there was a notable “improvement in cognitive performance and brain function” in the participants who had the blueberry powder, which was equivalent to one cup of berries.
But adding a handful of blueberries to your daily diet can do more than just boost brain power.
Under pressure
These powerful little berries are also thought to combat high blood pressure by relaxing the walls of blood vessels. This reduces the risk of hardening arteries, which in turn reduces the likelihood of stroke or a heart attack.
Happy tummies
Blueberries are also high in fibre and provide a rich source of micronutrients called polyphenols, making them highly beneficial to the digestive system and for gut health.
This study by the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry saw an increase in two types of healthy bacteria in participants after just six weeks of drinking a wild blueberry drink.
Growth
Some of those same polyphenols can also help to promote hair growth. These little chemicals stimulate growth by accelerating the production of new cells, which helps the hair follicles push out dead ones.
Greys away
Prematurely greying hair is thought to be caused, in part, by a deficiency of vitamin B12. This can lead to a condition called “pernicious anaemia” which can actually be reversed by upping the intake of B12 again. This is where blueberries come in; they’re packed full of it.
Now to start getting some blueberries in! Try gluten-free blueberry and white chocolate scones or this stunning lemon and blueberry cheesecake (http://www.foodtolove.com.au/recipes/lemon-and-blueberry-cheesecake-31749|target=”_blank”), or see even more delicious recipes below.
