Today, there is both wild and cultivated blueberries, whose beneficial properties are appreciated by the inhabitants of most countries of the northern hemisphere. In nature, it grows in the forest and tundra zones, it bears fruit abundantly, so collecting it is easy. The fact that blueberry, the useful properties of which made it very attractive, can become a garden plant, the first American breeder F.V. Coville. He achieved his goal in 1908, and the support of Elizabeth White, who provided him with her household in New Jersey and material resources, played a significant role in this.
The benefits of blueberries, of course, are due to the content in it of ascorbic and various organic acids, sugars, pectin, vitamins, proteins, fiber, carotene. Among macro- and microelements, it is worth highlighting potassium, phosphorus, magnesium, sodium, cobalt, iron, iodine, copper. Its fruits have a pleasant sweet and sour taste. Berries are consumed fresh, slightly frostbitten, processed and dried. They are used to make jelly, stewed fruit, fruit drinks, juices, candy, light natural wines, jellies, and preserves.
The beneficial properties of blueberries are multifaceted. This berry helps in the fight against excess weight, which reduces the risk of cardiovascular disease and the development of metabolic syndrome. There are studies showing that wild fruit juice improves blood insulin and glucose levels.
And for the prevention of colds and viral diseases, blueberries can also be used. Its useful properties from this point of view are due to the fact that it contains powerful antioxidants with antibacterial properties and stimulates the functioning of the immune system well. It helps to strengthen the health of the genitourinary system, preventing the development of inflammatory processes. The basis for this is complex polymers that do not allow colonies of b-intestinal bacteria to develop on the walls of the urinary tract.
If you need to find a means to preserve youth, then this is blueberry. Its useful properties in this case are manifested in the process of neutralizing free radicals. This is due to the high content of vitamin C, blue pigments and anthocyanins. According to ophthalmologists, blueberry extract is saturated with specific compounds that slow down the process of vision impairment. Using them, you can delay or even prevent many age-related eye problems. In particular, anthocyanosides can serve as an effective means of preventing myopia, hyperopia, cataracts, macular degeneration, infections and dryness affecting the retina.
Blueberries have a positive effect on brain health. The substances in its composition prevent neurotic disorders, the death of neurons, cells. It is believed that this berry can help with Alzheimer's disease and preserve memory until old age. Blueberries help maintain good central nervous system function. Compounds contained in it, such as pterostilbene, ellagic acid, anthocyanins, have a prophylactic effect against certain types of cancer. In addition, blueberries help with constipation, being an effective laxative (if there is a lot of it).