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Blueberries: more than just good
taste
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It has long been known that antioxidants work to counteract
the effects of aging and disease by fighting against free radicals. Free radicals
are highly reactive molecules that contribute to various health problems ranging
from cancer to the flu. Fresh vegetables and fruits are good sources of the
antioxidants that neutralize free radicals, and it is now known that blueberries
are the best source of all.
A study
done at Tufts University in
1997 showed that, ounce for ounce, blueberries
contain 3 times more antioxidants than spinach or an
orange. The difference apparently comes from the color:
blue pigments called anthocyanins are potent antioxidants.
They are also found in strawberries and other blue and
red fruits.
Preliminary studies
involving blueberries have also been done by the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Rats
given a diet supplemented with a few blueberries every
day showed fewer signs of the mental and physical slowing
that can come from aging. Diets that included strawberries
and spinach were also effective.
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