Where I live, the blueberry season has come and gone. Not that it mattered much as I garnered only a small handful from my garden this year. I rarely rely on what I produce but wait for that abundant supply in grocery stores and stock my freezer to enjoy this great fruit all year. Although some prefer to wash blueberries and dry thoroughly before freezing, I freeze those fresh blue delights in air-tight containers without washing. If you freeze unwashed, remember to rinse before using.
Blueberries are one of the most healthful foods you can eat. This luscious fruit, low in sodium and fat, supplies a good source of vitamin C and manganese as well as dietary fiber. In the 1990s, blueberries took center stage when noted for its rich source of antioxidants. Polyphenols, especially the anthocyanins that give blueberries their deep blue color, contribute to high antioxidants levels. Antioxidants play a major role as an anti-inflammatory agent. Ways these nutrients help maintain health include:
- Fight potential disease
- Protect against age-related brain function by improving memory and motor skills
- May work synergistically with dopamine neurons to improve motor behavior in Parkinson’s disease
- May improve longevity
- May inhibit cancer-cell growth
- May help to lessen brain damage after a stroke
Blueberries have multiple uses. Some of the ways to add this tasty, nutritious, and versatile fruit into your diet are:
- Add to pancake or waffle batter
- Sprinkle on cereal, green salads, or yogurt
- Make into smoothies
- Add dried blueberries to granola mix
- Eat handfuls as snacks either fresh, frozen, or dried
Incorporate blueberries as a part of an entire meal. We recently enjoyed a delicious and nourishing salad lunch by topping with poppyseed dressing and serving with homemade fig bread made with figs from our tree.
This week I found a scrumptious-sounding recipe for blueberry pound cake. I can’t wait to try it.
Don’t overlook this healthful fruit when planning your snacks and meals. Find ways to use blueberries to perk up taste while adding a food packed with nutrients.
Related articles
- Ingredient Digest: Blueberries (purelyelizabeth.wordpress.com)
- Blueberries…A Superfood (eatingaftergastricbypass.net)
FOOD FROM THE GARDEN 