The Magic of Blueberries
For many of us, it’s blueberry season! I just got back from the grocery store with some, and was inspired to write about them! These indigo-colored berries are sweet, long lasting, and versatile. They are a great way to jazz up salads, smoothies, yogurt, pancakes, or waffles. Not only are they tasty and easy to snack on, but they are powerhouse superfoods with a wide range of benefits. Here are just a few magical benefits of the super sweet “candy of nature”!
High in nutrition
Blueberries are very nutritious. A cup contains four grams of fiber, 36% of your daily value (DV) of vitamin K, 24% DV of vitamin C, 25% DV of manganese and 15 grams of healthy carbohydrates.
Low in calories
Although they are high in nutrition, they are low in calories. One serving of 148 grams of blueberries only contains 84 calories.
King of anti-oxidants
Blueberries are often referred to as the king of antioxidants. They contain a high number of flavonoids that reduce the risk of various types of diseases and illnesses like cancer and heart problems.
Promote anti-aging
Daily consumption of blueberries reduces the risk of DNA damage and the development of anti-aging symptoms.
Fight various diseases and illnesses
Blueberries can help reduce cholesterol, lower blood pressure and improve your memory and other brain activities.
Workout partner
Blueberries are great for restoring and repairing muscle damage after hard workout sessions. Add a handful of them to your post-workout protein shake or smoothie.
Help in losing weight
The fiber in blueberries helps you feel full, satiates cravings, and provides you with loads of long-lasting energy. Whip up a smoothie or throw them into some Greek yogurt to help keep your snacking healthy.
Healthy digestion
Having a handful of blueberries as a dessert after your meal will help to improve your digestion and will save your body from disturbing illnesses like constipation.
Promote clear and glowing skin
Blueberries promote clear skin. The high levels of vitamin C help reduce the damages of smoke, pollution and built up makeup. Try a blueberry facemask at home to help your skin regain its glow.
Have luscious locks
The vitamins and nutrients in blueberries can help restore the luster and shine of your hair. You can even crush a handful of blueberries and add them to your hair oil as a hair mask. Apply, let sit for a few minutes, and rinse. Your hair will feel amazing.
You are strong when your bones are strong
Blueberries contain magnesium, calcium, iron, and phosphorus that promote strong, healthy bones. Daily consumption of a handful blueberries may help repair damaged bones and reduce the risk of osteoporosis.
SO GOOD!
Blueberries can be adding to almost anything-throw some into yogurt, on top of your cereal, into salads, or mixed right into your protein pancakes or waffles. They add a sweetness that allows you to reduce the sugar in man recipes!
To get a super powerful morning or post workout kick, try making a power smoothie with blueberries as the star!
Allow yourself to be creative, use your favorite add-ons, and make this a power filled addition to your daily nutrition!
Start with your favorite milk-almond, oat, it’s your choice! Add in some spinach or kale (I promise-you won’t taste it!!), perhaps a scoop of your favorite protein powder, and a handful of blueberries and blend! To add more nutrition and power to your shake, try adding some greek yogurt, chia seeds, or flax seeds. For a little added sweetness, try adding half a banana to this. YUMMY! If blueberries are not in season where you live, frozen blueberries work just as well, and make give your smoothie an extra creamy and milkshake type of texture and taste.
If you’re looking for ways to clean up your diet, find the right nutrition for your lifestyle, learn how to reduce stress in your lifestyle, or gain focus and motivation to make healthy choices in your life to live the best life ever, please feel free to connect and set up a personalized plan just for you. You can also follow me on IG for daily inspiration, tips, and freebies.
Be blessed and BeeWell!