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Blueberries Are Little Miracles

Anti-cancer, anti-Alzheimer’s and more!

By Gale Maleskey, MS, RD
Registered Dietitian
About the Author
August 21, 2008

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From research labs around the world, there is growing evidence that blueberries are powerful disease fighters. Here is a summary of what we have learned so far:

• Blueberries help protect the brain from oxidative stress and reduce the effects of age-related conditions such as Alzheimer's disease or dementia.

• Eating blueberries may reduce colon cancer risk. Phenolic compounds in blueberries can inhibit colon cancer cell proliferation and induce apoptosis (programmed cell death).

• Blueberries improve night vision and slow macular degeneration by strengthening tiny blood vessels in the back of the eye.

• Like cranberries, blueberries contain tannins that help prevent urinary tract infections.

When buying fresh blueberries, choose berries that are firm and have a uniform hue colored with a whitish bloom. Shake the container. The berries should move freely. If they do not, they may be soft and damaged or moldy.

When buying frozen berries, shake the bag gently to ensure that the berries move freely and are not clumped together, which may suggest that they have been thawed and refrozen.

The Anti-Aging Bottom Line: Blueberries are one of the highest antioxidant foods around, worth including in your daily diet year-round. They can reduce the affects of neurodegenerative diseases, reduce cancer risk, prevent macular degeneration and much more! Check out our recipes for great ways to use them.

QUICK TIP: Do you know how to maximize the amount of antioxidants you consume? Jean Carper tests your antioxidant IQ. Learn More

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Written exclusively for Stop Aging Now, the authority on anti-aging research, anti-aging nutrition, and anti-aging supplements.

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Brain Energizer Formula

Stop Aging Now's Brain Energizer is a proprietary blend of six all natural ingredients that have strong scientific evidence backing their ability to provide a broad-spectrum attack on multiple mechanisms that underlie age-related neuro-degeneration and cognitive dysfunction.

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Stop Aging Now's Brain Energizer PLUS is a proprietary blend of six all natural ingredients plus the addition of Acetyl-L-Carnitine made from 100% L-Carnipure, one of the purest forms. All seven ingredients have strong scientific evidence backing their ability to provide a broad-spectrum attack on multiple mechanisms that underlie age-related neuro-degeneration and cognitive dysfunction.

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RELATED RECIPES

Anti-Aging Blueberry Buckle

Blueberries are one of the highest antioxidant foods that can protect your brain and eyes, and reduce your risk for cancer. My friend, Laurie J. Buck, came up with this recipe after we spent a morning picking berries. Lemon zest and lavender add bits of color and flavor to the biscuit part of this dish, while lemon juice enhances the blueberry taste.

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Low-Fat Mixed Berry Clafouti

Eating berries every day can raise HDL cholesterol and lower blood pressure. Use fresh or frozen berries to make this light, satisfying dessert, which could also serve as a breakfast. Blueberries, black raspberries and cherries work especially well in this fruity custard.

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Antioxidant Blueberry Salad and Vinaigrette

This sweet and savory salad is a fresh pick-me-up for summer or winter. The blueberries contain epicatechin, an antioxidant compound that may help to preserve brain power.

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High Antioxidant Very Berry Crisp

Lots of deeply-hued berries and whole grains make this classic dessert a healthy treat. It is high in antioxidants and fiber!

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