Wild Blueberries have Potent Health Benefits
Blueberries are Very Good for You
In fact, it has long been known by natives and our ancestors that wild blueberries have potent health benefits.
In the past, research examining the power of wild blueberries indicated these berries may mitigate brain damage in stroke victims. Other research indicated wild blueberries are rich in antioxidants and anthocyanosides, which may help preserve vision, kill bacteria that cause diarrhea, and prevent or relieve upper urinary tract and bladder infections.
Wild blueberries (vaccinium angustifolium) are one of only three berries native to North America and have grown naturally for thousands of years. They thrive in the northern climate and can be found in the fields and barrens of Downeast Maine and Canada.
Wild Blueberries Block Infections
Wild Blueberries and cranberries have unique compounds that block infectious bacteria from clinging to the cell lining in the urinary tract and bladder. Bladder or urinary tract infections, also known as cystitis, are usually caused by common Escherichia coli (E. coli) bacteria that get into the upper urinary tract, the urethra and bladder. It is important to note it is possible to have cystitis symptoms without an infection if the bladder becomes irritated.
And as to preserving vision, wild blueberries unique compound anthocyanosides has been found in clinical studies to slow down visual loss. Other research indicates wild blueberries also have antiviral activity, are high in natural aspirin and are bursting with vitamins, especially vitamin C and E, and are an excellent source of fiber.
How many blueberries or how much blueberry juice should you drink or eat for these health benefits? A healthcare practitioner can best advise you.
Age-old Wild Blueberry Remedies
That said, a 4-6 ounce glass of blueberry juice a day may help block bacteria from clinging to the lining of your urinary tract and bladder. And for the treatment of childhood diarrhea, the age old remedy suggests using dried blueberries made into a soup. The common therapeutic dose is about one-third of an ounce of dried blueberries.
In any event, berries, fruits and vegetables are just one of the food groups that have so much to offer to maintain health and act as a potent weapon against diseases. And when used in conjunction with other natural techniques such as herbs, homeopathy and nutritional therapy, fresh fruits, vegetables and berries can create an optimal nutritional foundation to bolster the body's innate healing abilities.
Make Your Own Juice
If you own a juicer you may be delighted to learn that alternative practitioners say that vegetables, fruits and berries when made into juice, are natural tonics, offering a safe, inexpensive way to stimulate digestion, bolster the immune system and encourage the elimination of toxins.
Keep in mind juices are low in fiber. Eating a bowl full of whole berries or cut fruit wedges will help increase fiber content. For the creative touch, freeze berries, fruit or vegetable pieces in ice cubes and add them to your drink.
Research has long indicated diets rich in vegetables, fruits, and berries decrease your risk of developing a number of chronic degenerative diseases, including cancer, diabetes, and heart disease. So enjoy a bowl full of wild blueberries for a healthier alternative snack or desert.
For the latest information on the health benefits of wild blueberries, where to purchase them or find recipe ideas, consult the Wild Blueberries from Maine and Canada web site.
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