The genus Vaccinium includes all the species known as cranberries, such as blueberry (Vaccinium Corymbosum). This genus comprises approximately 450 species whose habitat is mainly cold regions although there are exist tropical species.
Blueberries are not only tasty; they are also low in calories and especially rich in Vitamin C. They are a good source of fiber, leading to improved digestion, as well as of manganese and iron.
What mainly characterizes these fruits is their abundance of natural pigments: anthocyanins and antioxidant carotenoids.
Berries and leaves have a number of properties that have been used for generations to treat and prevent digestive disorders, improve circulation, maintain eye health and reduce inflammation.
Benefits:
- Good source of antioxidants: Due to the organic acids they contain and the 15 anthocyanins that give them their unique colour (among which are mirtiline, cyanidine, definidine, malvidin, peonidine and petunidide). Antioxidants are compounds that fight important diseases.
- Help in weight loss diets: High in nutritional power, fiber and antioxidants and low in calories and sugars, blueberries are the perfect ally in weight loss diets with fiber as its key slimming component. During its traverse of the digestive system, this berry provides nutrients and calories, however its main added value is helping to eliminate fats and substances rejected by the body. Certain studies from the University of Michigan, US, claim that blueberry consumption can help reduce abdominal fat.
