New research documents four important benefits of blueberries

( Natural News ) Although the term “superfood” is so overused these days that it has almost lost its value, one of the original superfoods continues to remind us how it gained its legendary status and why it is so superior over much of the competition. Recent research has provided us with some new insight into the health potential of blueberries when it comes to four important aspects of health. Here’s a look at what we now know. Brain health One of the most talked-about benefits of blueberries is their effect on brain health. Now, research shows that these delicious fruits can lower Alzheimer’s disease risk factors like the accumulation of plaques in the brain, which contributes to the illness. A recent study in mice showed that giving a supplement of blueberries, omega 3s and phosphatidylserine lowered the amount of plaque formation in just seven months while also reducing indicators of oxidative stress. In addition, there was a rise in the neurotransmitters that help send impulses between neurons; a deficiency of these is linked to Alzheimer’s disease. Eye health It’s no secret that vision tends to get poorer as you age, and one of the top causes of blindness among elderly people is age-related macular degeneration. This is often caused by light-induced damage. Blueberries can reduce lipid peroxidation, protecting the retina from daily light exposure and lowering the chance of blindness. Heart health In a study published in the International Journal of Food Sciences and Nutrition , blueberry supplementation in mice with high cholesterol reduced their risk factors for atherosclerosis. Those who took the extract noted a 29 percent reduction in total cholesterol, with bad cholesterol dropping by 34 percent and good cholesterol rising by up to 40 percent, despite consuming a high-fat diet. In addition, triglycerides – a […]

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