According to FitDay, blueberries have gained super fruit status because of their high concentrations of antioxidants and phytonutrients. These compounds have been linked to preventing cell damage by neutralizing radicals, while also preventing inflammation and protecting against cancer and chronic heart disease.
Inflammation is a known cause of Alzheimer’s, and new research from the University of Cincinnati Academic Health Center has shown that “blueberries can have a real benefit in improving memory and cognitive function in some older adults,” according to Robert Krikorian, PhD, leader of the research team. As reported by Medical Xpress, blueberries also contain flavonoids known as anthocyanins, which have been shown to improve brain function and slow down brain aging in animal studies.
Meanwhile, according to FitDay, blueberries are also thought to reverse short-term memory loss, and their antioxidants can improve motor skills. These antioxidants include anthocyanins, proanthocyanins, resveratrol, flavonols and tannins – all of which have been linked to preventing the growth of cancer cells.
But the power of blueberries goes beyond their antioxidant content – they also contain a wealth of vitamins that are important to the health of your whole body, such as vitamin A which is vital for your eyesight.