What is in Blueberries?
‘What is in Blueberries?’ The question should be, “What is NOT in blueberries?”
Most people know blueberries as sweet and juicy berries with a deliciously unique flavor. They are so healthy, easy to eat, and they have been around North America long before Europeans came to this part of the world.
However, blueberries contain so many more vitamins and health benefits than most fruits that they are commonly called ‘super fruit’. Blueberries are rich in vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, soluble dietary fiber, and are also low in sugar, fat, and cholesterol.
Again, what exactly is in blueberries? Nutritionally, 1 cup of blueberries has 84 calories, 21 carbohydrates, 15 g of sugar, and 1 g of protein. Vitamins found in blueberries include Vitamins A, C, D, E, K, B6, & B12. Other vitamins include, Thiamin, Riboflavin, Niacin, Folate, Pantothenic Acid, Choline, Betaine, and Pyridoxine. Blueberries also contain potassium which helps control heart rate and blood pressure, copper that is good for red blood cell production, and iron which is good for red blood cell formation. All of these many vitamins work together as antioxidants and fight free radicals that can damage our bodies. They also promote healthy metabolism of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats.
Blueberries also contain an abundant amount of minerals. They include calcium, iron, magnesium, phosphorus, calcium, sodium, zinc, copper, manganese, selenium, and fluoride.
Did someone say antioxidants? Yes, blueberries are full of them. They are found in blueberries’ poly-phenolic anthocyanidin compounds which include tannins, quercetin, and kaempferol. In blueberries, you’ll also find flavonoid antioxidants including carotene-ß, lutein and zea-xanthin. The chlorogenic acid found in blueberries keeps blood sugar at low healthy levels and controls blood glucose for those with diabetes. Let’s don’t forget the phytochemical compounds found in blueberries. They will help fight off cancer-causing free radicals which promote infections, aging, and degenerative diseases.
In conclusion, it’s safe to say that blueberries are extremely healthy and provide many benefits to our bodies. It sure doesn’t hurt that they are so delicious! Stay healthy and keep eating blueberries!
Thanks to:
Blueberries Nutrition Facts
Nutritional Facts for Rall Blueberries
