Boost Up on Blueberries

By Brittany Kelley, R.D.

Everyone loves summer time for the sun, warmth, and trips to the beach. But what about the abundance of yummy foods that are in season?!

Blueberries are on the top of the list of fresh fruits between the months of July through August and make the perfect addition to any dish. Whether you are using them in a baked recipe, or adding them to your yogurt in the morning blueberries are highly versatile and provide us with several important vitamins and minerals. Although blueberries are full of flavor, don’t be deceived by their sweet taste. Blueberries are a great source of Vitamin C which is needed for skin and tissue healing as well as immune health. They are also high in manganese, which is a nutrient that helps the body process cholesterol and nutrients such as carbohydrates and protein.

Blueberries are also a good source of dietary fiber. Dietary fiber may reduce the risk of heart disease and adds bulk to your diet, which may help you feel full faster.

There is no such thing as a “superfood” that will cure all of your health problems, but by adding more nutrient rich fruits and vegetables to your diet you are more likely to promote a healthy lifestyle and prevent disease.