Having been grown in Maine for over 10,000 years, wild blueberries are known to be one of America’s oldest indigenous crops. And when it comes to heart health and cancer prevention
, healthy eating advocates say this delicious little fruit can make a big impact.
When you break open a wild blueberry or eat it you’ll get stains on your fingers. Those stains are pigments which are the health-protective compounds which help in cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, memory and many forms of cancer.
These deep-blue pigments, known as anthocyanins, a subclass of phytonutrients called flavonoids, create stains that can be tough to get out, but research shows they’re worth it. Wild blueberries also have anti-viral characteristics that can boost immunity. Blueberries contain essential nutrients, such as vitamins C and K and manganese, while the flavonoids cause the berries to be rich in antioxidants, which work to fight inflammation.
Unlike farmed blueberries, wild blueberries, also called “low-bush” blueberries grow naturally in cold temperatures. Native Americans have used wild berries for centuries in natural medicines and to dye fabric.
Plus, there are tons of easy ways to incorporate this tasty food into your diet.
Whoever thought pie could be an elixir to a long life? If it’s wild blueberry pie, it just might be the key to happiness. And there’s a heart-healthy spin to fulfill the sweetest breakfast cravings.
