Blueberries offer a low-calorie snack that is rich in both antioxidants and essential vitamins. Despite their health benefits, conventional blueberries may contain a variety of harmful pesticides that can cause unpleasant effects in some people. For best results, avoid blueberries if you have a salicylate sensitivity or other berry allergy, and only purchase blueberries from certified organic farms.
Pesticides
According to the “Huffington Post,” blueberries were recently added to the list of fruits containing the highest amount of pesticides. Tests of commercial blueberry batches found 46 different pesticide residues, placing blueberries in the 12 most toxic fruits and veggies list alongside strawberries, peaches and apples. Although few studies have been performed on the long-term health risks of consuming blueberries, people with sensitivities to certain pesticides may encounter negative symptoms.
Allergies
Blueberries contain very high levels of salicylate, making them a health risk for people who have a salicylate sensitivity. According to the Auckland Allergy Clinic, symptoms of salicylate intolerance include sinusitis, upset stomach, asthma, nasal polyps, eczema and chronic urticaria. Salicylates are a naturally occurring chemical that are found in a variety of fruits and vegetables, and may lead to serious allergic reactions in people with low tolerance levels.
Fiber Content
Blueberries are generally considered a healthy food for most individuals, because of their high volume of vitamin C and minerals such as manganese. Blueberries are also high in dietary fiber, and generally provide most of your recommended daily intake in two or three servings. Unfortunately, individuals with irritable bowel syndrome, spastic colon and other fiber-intolerant conditions may experience gas or bloating after eating high quantities of fiber.
Safety Concerns
To minimize your intake of pesticides, purchase blueberries from farms and companies that have been certified organic. Rinse your blueberries thoroughly before eating, and talk to your doctor if you regularly experience negative symptoms after eating blueberries.
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