The Effects Of Eating Blueberries

Though widely consumed, blueberries, a native of North America, have been cultivated for domestic production relatively recently compared to other agricultural food plants. While cultivated blueberries are larger than their wild counterparts, wild blueberries tend to have a darker color. This berry's dark pigment signifies a high content of certain phytonutrients and considerable potential health benefits.

Anthocyanidins

Anthocyanidin antioxidant compounds in blueberries provide many of blueberries' important health benefits. This fruit tops the charts for antioxidant activity, according to naturopath Michael T. Murray, author of "The Condensed Encyclopedia of Healing Foods." In particular, blueberries may help preserve healthy nerve communication and prevent degenerative effects in the brain that lead to Alzheimer's disease and other age-related conditions. Your vision may be sharper from eating blueberries, also. Blueberries have been found to prevent macular degeneration, improving your ability to see clearly in low light conditions.

DNA Protection

A study published in the December 2010 issue of the journal "Mutation Research" found that blueberries protected against DNA damage in laboratory animals. In the study, eight weeks of a blueberry diet did not improve antioxidant activity in the blood, but it significantly reduced DNA damage and protected white blood cells from oxidative damage.

Urinary Tract Infections

Blueberries exhibit effects similar to those of cranberries in preventing urinary tract infections, according to a study published in the October 2004 issue of the "Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry." In the test tube study, proanthocyanidins from wild blueberries inhibited adhesion of E. coli, the bacterium responsible for most urinary tract infections. The blueberry extract also showed significant ability to inhibit reproduction of prostate and liver cancer cells.

Diabetes

Diabetes may be prevented or helped with blueberry consumption, according to a study published in the October 2010 issue of the "Journal of Nutrition." In the double-blind, placebo-controlled study of 32 obese, non-diabetic and insulin-resistant participants, blueberry extract supplement for six weeks resulted in improved insulin sensitivity. Body fat, calorie consumption and inflammation were not changed by blueberry consumption during the study period.

Nutrient Content

Aside from its high levels of anthcyanidins, blueberries are high in fiber, vitamin C, folate, iron, manganese and potassium as well as B-complex vitamins, vitamin E and the essential fatty acid linolenic acid, according to certified nutritional consultant Phyllis Balch, author of "Prescription for Dietary Wellness." A two-thirds cup of fresh blueberries provides 57 calories, 2.4 g of fiber, including pectin, a soluble fiber with cholesterol-lowering properties, and 9.9 g of sugars, making the blueberry a relatively low-sugar fruit.