I love blueberries, and its sweet flavor, juicy texture, and that beautiful bluish-purple color never go missing during breakfast. But what I love the most about it is the health benefits of blueberries.
The best time to eat blueberries is right around this time of the year. Blueberry harvesting season can be anywhere from late May through mid-August.
That is why we celebrate National Blueberry Month in July. As far as wintertime, thanks to Chile, we get top quality blueberries.
14 Health Benefits of Blueberries
Small but powerful! Don’t let the tiny size fool you; This purple fruit is jam-packed with fabulous health benefits:
- They have more antioxidants than red wine and green tea (of those that help fight disease).
- They help with aging and revitalize the skin.
- They have anti-inflammatory properties.
- They are full of fiber, vitamin C, E, and potassium.
- There are only 40 calories in ½ cup, so they are perfect for snacking.
- They help prevent Alzheimer’s and minimize the risks of heart attacks.
- They prevent colon cancer among many other health benefits.
After watching this, you’ll want to eat blueberries right away.
Now that you know about the health benefits of blueberries, here are some tips to make you blueberry experience taste better.
How to Pick Blueberries
When you go to the store to buy blueberries, make sure you look for the following:
- Select blueberries that look firm and evenly colored.
- Gently shake the box; if they all move without hesitation, they are fresh and are not frozen.
- Make sure they are not squashed and or moistened.
- Remove those are squashed or rotten before refrigerating them.
- Do not wash them before storing them; wash them just before eating them.
- Blueberries will last several days in a closed container in the fridge, but not in vegetable drawers as they get moistened.
How to Eat Blueberries
When it comes to eating blueberries, they are a very versatile ingredient:
- They are the perfect snack for young and adults.
- Eat them for breakfast, in oatmeal, cereal, in muffins, in French toast or pancakes, even in a refreshing smoothie.
- Try them in salads or with cheeses, in cakes or crepes.
- Serve them on a pancake in butter, sugar, orange, or lemon syrup. You can add a pinch of orange liquor.
Related Article: 20 Popular Hispanic Food every Foodie Should Try
Benefits of Blueberries for Everyone
If you know a farm that grows blueberries, support them, and buy from them. Also, if you have events in your city, promoting this delicious fruit, bring your friends and spread the word about the benefits of blueberries to bring awareness about why they should consume this tiny but powerful fruit.
Doreen Colondres is a celebrity chef. Author of the book The Kitchen Doesn’t Bite. Follow her on Facebook and Instagram @DoreenColondres and visit www.LaCocinaNoMuerde.com , www.TheKitchenDoesntBite.com or buy her book on Amazon or iTunes.