June and July are the best months for blueberries, so get them before they are gone! There are several pick-your-own berry farms in the area, down Hwy. 21 right outside of Covington on the way to Bush. It’s a fun afternoon with the kids, and they generally have other types of berries like blackberries and huckleberries. Some close their season in mid July, but you can still find berries at the Saturday Farmer’s Market.
The Many Health Benefits of Blueberries
Blueberries are one of the most powerful antioxidants, essential to optimal health. As with all fruits and vegetables, the best way to maximize the benefits of this berry are to obtain it organic and eat it raw. Blueberries contain many important phytonutrients that function as antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compounds that act on the whole body system, from cardiovascular to blood sugar regulation and digestion.
Blueberry intake has been shown to regulate total cholesterol and protect blood components from oxygen damage. Routine consumption of blueberries also shows a significant relationship to the regulation of blood pressure. Recent studies show that blueberries may help improve cognitive function, including memory. They are also beneficial in regulating blood sugar and promoting overall eye health.
Always consult your nutritionist or general health care provider for any issues of health or diet, but don’t overlook this little blue berry!
What Exactly are Phytonutrients Anyway?
Phytonutrients are organic chemical compounds that are components of fruits, vegetables, grains, legumes, nuts and teas. The different phytonutrients present relate to the color exhibited by the fruit or vegetable. One of the best understood of these compounds are the Carotenoids, the red, orange and yellow pigments in fruits and vegetables. These compounds in particular appear to protect against certain cancers, heart disease and age related macular degeneration. They achieve this by serving as antioxidants, enhancing immune response, enhancing cellular communication, repair DNA damage and detoxify carcinogens.
