Blueberries are small but packed with big health benefits. During the peak season in summer, especially in July and August, you might find yourself reaching for these tasty berries more often. Blueberries aren’t just delicious on their own—they’re great in smoothies, salads, baked goods, and even cocktails.
These berries are super popular for a reason: they offer a ton of health benefits thanks to their antioxidants. But is it okay to eat them every day? Registered dietitian Jordan Hill from Top Nutrition Coaching breaks down the pros and cons of eating blueberries regularly.
Are Blueberries Good for You?
Yes, blueberries are considered a “superfood” because they’re full of nutrients that benefit your heart, brain, digestion, eyes, and skin. They can even help manage diabetes, prevent cancer, and support weight management because of their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
Hill explains that the antioxidants and phytochemicals in blueberries can help balance hormones, improve heart health, and boost skin health. The folate and vitamin C in blueberries also support fertility and prenatal health. That’s why you’ll often see blueberry extract in skincare products—it can fight aging and make your skin glow.
Blueberries also have anti-inflammatory properties that might help reduce menstrual cramps. Plus, their fiber content can help regulate blood sugar levels and support a healthy heart and digestive system.
According to a study by the National Library of Medicine, eating more flavonoids (especially from berries like blueberries) may slow down cognitive decline in older adults. So if you’re worried about memory loss, eating more blueberries could be a smart move.
What’s the Best Way to Eat Blueberries?
Eating blueberries fresh and raw is the healthiest option because they keep more of their nutrients when unprocessed. Hill suggests enjoying them as a snack, in smoothies, or as a topping for oatmeal, yogurt, and salads. You can also freeze them into popsicles for a cool treat.
However, it’s best to avoid eating blueberries in sugary desserts or fried foods, as these aren’t the healthiest ways to enjoy this superfood.
What Happens if You Eat Blueberries Every Day?
If you eat blueberries daily, you might see improvements in heart health, digestion, blood sugar control, and even a reduced risk of cancer and chronic diseases. But Hill points out that these benefits are best achieved when blueberries are part of a balanced diet.
Blueberries are also low in calories, so they make a great snack for satisfying your sweet tooth without adding too many calories. A one-cup serving has 25% of your daily vitamin C, 4 grams of fiber, and just 80 calories.
But, like with any food, moderation is key. Eating too many blueberries could lead to excessive calorie intake, digestive issues, blood sugar spikes, and even kidney stones. Hill recommends sticking to a 1/2 cup of blueberries per day.
In conclusion, blueberries are incredibly healthy, but it’s important to enjoy them as part of a varied diet. Thanks to Parade for this helpful information!
https://parade.com/health/what-happens-if-you-eat-blueberries-every-day?utm_source=pushly