BLUEBERRIES STOP HEART DISEASE

History

For centuries, blueberries were gathered from the forests and the bogs by Native Americans and consumed fresh and also preserved. The blossom end of each berry, the calyx, forms the shape of a perfect five-pointed star; the elders of the tribe would tell of how the Great Spirit sent "star berries" to relieve the children's hunger during a famine. Parts of the blueberry plant were also used as medicine. A tea made from the leaves of the plant was thought to be good for the blood. Blueberry juice was used to treat coughs.

Blueberries can fight heart disease.

Recent research shows the equivalent of ½ cup of blueberries per day can reduce the plaque formation of atherosclerosis more than 50%. This could be life changing for people that have heart or artery disease. Just another great example of the undiscovered value of eating right. Get your fruits and veggies.

Blueberries are an excellent source of vitamin C.

In fact, a serving contains about 14 mg or almost 25% of daily requirement for Vitamin C. Vitamin C is needed for the formation of collagen and to maintain healthy gums and capillaries. It also aids in the absorption of iron and promotes a healthy immune system.

Blueberries are a good source of dietary fiber.

Government surveys tell us that there is not enough fiber in our diet. A diet high in fiber contributes to heart health, helping to keep cholesterol in check. Fiber also aids in digestions and helps maintain regularity.

Blueberries are an excellent source of manganese.

Manganese plays an important role in the development of bones and in the metabolism of protein, carbohydrate and fat.