We love blueberries: fresh, added to muffins or summer sorbets. If there is something like the king of fruits and vegetables, blueberries are the one!
Anti-Aging Memory Food
Blueberries have got the reputation of anti-aging and memory-protecting food. According to the USDA Nutrient Data Laboratory, blueberries contain antioxidants called anthocyanin that are anti-inflammatory and can prevent people from diseases like Alzheimer's or Parkinson's.
Anthocyanins also contribute to good eye health as they improve vision. Other compounds in blueberries are polyphenols, which are the reason for blueberries to be called "the memory food".
Cancer Protective Benefits
Like other berries, they contain the highest content of flavonoids, which are known to fight cancer. In a study of the antioxidant levels of 100 foods from 2008, cranberries, blueberries, and blackberries ranked highest among the fruits studied.
Our body can't absorb all the antioxidants, but there is a way to get most of them: mild steaming (maybe keto muffins or chia jam?) can actually increase the antioxidant level, making more antioxidants bioavailable.
Are Blueberries Suitable for the Ketogenic Diet?
Yes they are, in moderation. Although berries in general are low in carbs, blueberries have a relatively high carb count that varies from 2.8 to 3.4 grams of net carbs per oz (~ 30 g).
Wild blueberries are the lowest in carbs and contain the most nutrients. You can eat them either fresh or frozen, both have the essential nutrients your body needs.
Blueberries are often on the "Dirty Dozen" list of 12 most contaminated fruits and vegetables so it's always better to get them organic.
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