More Good News About Blueberries

I love blueberries, but I don't always love the price of them in the grocery store. What a nice surprise this week to see them 2 for $4 in the middle of winter! I had a bowl of fresh berries with lunch and it was a treat!

You have heard about the many nutritional benefits of blueberries before, but I read a recent study that peaked my interest and I thought I would tell you about it. This study was done on pigs (which happens to be my favorite animal from childhood....long story I will tell another time). Pigs were studied because I guess their cholesterol and hearts are similar to humans. Who knew!

Anyway, they gave these pigs 2% blueberry as part of their feed which is equivalent to about 2 cups for humans. They found that the pigs fed the blueberries were able to lower their cholesterol. In addition, they found that the blueberries were more effective at lowering cholesterol if they were given as part of a grain-based heart healthy diet.

What makes them so good for you
Blueberries contain flavonoids which act as antioxidants. They help protect the heart by reducing how much LDL (bad) cholesterol is produced. Flavonoids may also help reduce inflammation in the heart. They also have Vitamin K, Vitamin C, manganese, and fiber.

Blueberries are wonderful just by themselves or in oatmeal, muffins, cereal, or pancakes. Take frozen blueberries and blend them into a smoothie. Enjoy!

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