Blueberries are rich in antioxidants and vitamins, and their fiber content can help alleviate and protect against intestinal inflammation, especially when eaten with probiotics.
by Joanne Henning Tedesco —
Blueberries are rich in antioxidants and vitamins, and their fiber content can help alleviate and protect against intestinal inflammation, especially when eaten with probiotics. They are rich in polyphenols, which have an antimicrobial and antioxidant effect. The combination of blueberries and probiotics has been shown to reduce inflammation-inducing bacteria in the intestine at the same rate as the number of health-promoting lactobacilli increase.
Blueberries contain soluble and insoluble fiber and are known to help relieve both diarrhea and constipation. In addition, they are rich in the soluble fiber pectin, which helps lower cholesterol levels.
They are also packed with vitamin C, contain substances that have antioxidant properties and are an excellent source of manganese, which plays an important role in bone development and in converting proteins, carbohydrates and fats in food into energy. The following recipe gives blueberries a perfect chance to do their job for our health.
Wild Blueberry Vinaigrette
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup red wine or cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 2 teaspoons prepared mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper
- 1/2 cup fresh or frozen blueberries (thawed)
Preparation:
Combine all ingredients except blueberries in a covered jar and shake until thoroughly blended. Or whisk thoroughly in a bowl. Add blueberries. Store in refrigerator. Makes 1-1/2 cups.
Sources: www.mercola.com and Joanne’s recipe box.
Reprinted from AzNetNews, Volume 32, Number 1, February/March 2013.
March 30, 2013
Alternative Therapies, Cholesterol, Constipation, February/March 2013 Issue, Food, Nutrition and Diet, Health, Inflammation, Nutrition, Recipes