Food of the Week: Give Your Body the Antioxidant Punch it NEEDS!

[bmagill]

Are you looking for a way to look and feel radiant? Well look no further, studies show that Blueberries deliver a potent antioxidant punch — in fact they have the highest antioxidant capacity per serving, compared with more than 20 other fruits!

Why are Antioxidants so important?

Antioxidants help our bodies protect against disease and age-related health risks. Every day, our cells wage a battle against free radicals – unstable oxygen molecules associated with cancer, heart disease and the effects of aging. Dietary antioxidants come to the rescue.

These phytonutrients, natural substances found in fruits and vegetables, neutralize free radicals and help prevent cell damage. Antioxidants also protect against inflammation, thought to be a leading factor in brain aging. Scientists from around the world are studying the ways in which these tiny little berries may help combat disease and promote healthy aging.

The many potential health benefits of Blueberries include:

• Brain Health: Ongoing brain research shows that blueberries may improve motor skills and actually reverse the short-term memory loss that comes with aging.
• Cancer Prevention: Research shows that blueberry compounds may inhibit all stages of cancer.
• Heart Health: Research indicates that blueberries may protect against heart disease and damage from stroke.
• Urinary Tract Health: Like cranberries, blueberries may help prevent urinary tract infections.
• Vision Health: Research around the world has indicated that blueberries may improve night vision and prevent tired eyes.

Have you gotten your Blueberries today? Stay tuned for different ways to incorporate these power packed berries into your meal plan!

Until Then,

Brandi

[jenz450]

May. 21, 2008 at 4:08 PM Your soooo good. THANKS FOR THE INFORMATION : )

[TexasMom817]

May. 21, 2008 at 4:28 PM

Great post Brandi! We eat blueberries daily and my dad, who has a serious blood disorder started eating them about 6 months ago and his blood counts actually went up!

It's even easy to find organic blueberries in the frozen section these days.