History-Blueberries, a leafy shrub native to North America, can vary in size up to 4 meters tall. The fruit is a pale green color initially, and through the ripening process changes from a red to a deep bluish-purple. Their inner flesh tends to be either a light greenish color, or reflective of its blue skin. Wild blueberries tend to be smaller, about the size of a green pea, but some species can exceed up to an inch in diameter. Blueberries can be both sweet and tart. Generally, larger blueberries tend to be sweeter and milder.
Health Benefits-Blueberries contain heart-essential fiber, in addition to antioxidant vitamins C and E. Vitamin C is excellent for immune system support, and vitamin E is not only necessary for heart health, but it also provides health benefits to skin and hair. Blueberries also contain phytonutrients – antioxidants such as anthocyanin pigments, which give them their color and are believed to protect against disease and promote healthy aging. Research indicates that the anthocyanin in blueberries may improve night vision, prevent tired eyes, and protect against macular degeneration and glaucoma. Blueberries are also high in manganese, a trace mineral essential to the body’s
enzyme’s systems, keeping bones healthy and helping synthesize fatty acids. Aside from protecting the brain and fighting cancer, blueberries
have been associated with lower cholesterol, protection against heart
disease, varicose veins, hemorrhoids and peptic ulcers, and they have
compounds which help prevent urinary tract infection just like
cranberries.
Preparation-A
thorough rinsing under cool, running water or a soak in cool water is
all the preparation blueberries need. Look for firm berries without any
mold or soft spots. The berries can be stored in the refrigerator for
up to a week. They can be eaten as they are, cooked into jams, pies,
muffins and cakes, pancakes, or added to fruit salad, cereal, yogurt,
cottage cheese, or smoothies. The possibilities are virtually
limitless.
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Blueberries
History-Blueberries, a leafy shrub native to North America, can vary in size up to 4 meters tall. The fruit is a pale green color initially, and through the ripening process changes from a red to a deep bluish-purple. Their inner flesh tends to be either a light greenish color, or reflective of its blue skin. Wild blueberries tend to be smaller, about the size of a green pea, but some species can exceed up to an inch in diameter. Blueberries can be both sweet and tart. Generally, larger blueberries tend to be sweeter and milder.