ABSOLUTE ASCENDANCY

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Introduction

Of all the berries, my bias is towards the blueberry. They exist within the ranks of the so-called superfoods, a testament to the vast variety of health benefits these small, round, dark blue fruits possess. Loaded with nutrients, antioxidants, and vitamins as well as being low in carbohydrates make this fruit a real winner in my book. They are living proof that greatness can be found in the smallest of things. Blueberries are good for many reasons, five of which are detailed below. 

1. Diabetes prevention
2. Lung protection
3. Reduce muscle strain
4. Improve cognitive function
5. Lower blood pressure

Diabetes prevention

A study was conducted with 32 obese people who had insulin resistance. They were given two blueberry smoothies each day, and at the end of the study, it was concluded that their insulin sensitivity had improved significantly. Even though blueberries themselves have some sugar content in them, this is mitigated by the other compound properties of the fruit.

Lung protection

The antioxidant properties residing in blueberries, also aid in protecting the lungs from declining as the body ages. A study was conducted over 16 years, and during this time, it found that men who had two servings of blueberries per week, had almost 40% less decline in their respiratory functions compared to those who didn’t.

Reduce muscle strain

Blueberries are a great food to consume for those who train at high intensity. The following study was published, which was conducted on 10 female athletes, the results proving that those who regularly consumed blueberries, recovered faster post workout. After my morning workout, I eat my breakfast, which consists of porridge with a chopped banana and blueberries. I generally find that this helps me keep ache free throughout the day.

Improve cognitive function

Again, the antioxidants present in blueberries help in promoting brain health in various ways. Studies were conducted for both older and younger people with evidence showing that blueberries assist in slowing down the ageing process as well as improving cell communication within the brain, leading to increased cognitive ability.

Lower blood pressure

Given how excessive high blood pressure is in the world, it’s good to know that blueberries have our back in lowering blood pressure. A study was conducted on obese people, which showed a decrease in blood pressure from around 5% due to eating 50 grams of blueberries each day. Lowering blood pressure, in turn, helps guard against cardiovascular diseases and slows down the ageing process.

Conclusion

Blueberries are a daily staple in my diet and should be in yours too. I recommend having some after a strenuous workout to assist in post-workout recovery. There are a variety of options for blueberry consumption, so experiment and find something that works for you.

Mission complete – Overlord Drakow signing out.