Blueberries are one of our favorite fruits. They are packed with antioxidants, fiber and vitamin C. That's why we've shared delicious summer recipes featuring blueberries in the past! We love them because they are sweet and delicious, and they have a low GI score, so they won't spike blood sugar.
Blueberries have anti-cancer benefits. Additionally, research has found that blueberries have properties that may aid eye health. And, a study found that older people who drank concentrated blueberry juice daily have better cognitive function.
Right now, blueberries are in season and on sale in supermarkets across the country. We always like promoting what's in season. Eating what's in season is good for the environment, great for promoting variety in your diet and excellent for your wallet. It's a win, win, win!
It's unhealthy to eat added sugar. Even if you aren't watching your weight or have blood sugar concerns, we're not built for added sugar. Refined sugar is a very recent development. Our bodies aren't built for it. Relying on fruit for sweetness is a healthy way of enjoying food that won't upset your blood sugar but will allow you to enjoy your food!
"Remember that our early human ancestors' only sweet taste — other than honey, which had to be hard-earned by fighting off bees — was fruit,” said Sharon Palmer, registered dietitian nutritionist. “Before the advent of making sugar, which was fairly recent in our history, we only relied on fruits for that naturally sweet taste.”
Some research has also shown that blueberries may help you feel refreshed and less achy after exercising. Because of their high levels of polyphenols, they can reduce inflammation and ease muscle pain. Anthocyanins That gives the berry its color increases blood flow and also helps lowers inflammation. If you have been struggling with fitness, adding some blueberries into your routine may ease your path.
We love sweet things. But added sugar can spike blood sugar so quickly, without fiber to help balance it, it can wreak havoc on our system. That's why we reach for fruit so often. It can be such a treat in smoothies and desserts. You don't need thickeners or sweeteners when you use the whole fruit. And, the longer you use it, the less and less you miss other sweeteners.
At this time of year, when they are in season and cheap, we're not always using recipes! During hot evenings, a freshly washed bowl of blueberries can hit the spot! Some people on our team use them in salads, some put them in peanut butter sandwiches, one puts them in mayo for other sandwiches! As we said: they are on sale in our supermarkets, and we are eating a lot of them. We encourage you to do the same!
