You know that blueberries are delicious and that they are good for you. But, as you grab a handful of berries to bite into, do you pause to think of the potential benefits they have to offer?
In fact, researchers have left no stone unturned when it comes to assessing the benefits of the nutrient-dense super berries. From delaying signs of aging to aiding weight loss, studies indicate that these ‘little blue dynamos’ hold the key to better skin, hair, and health.
Caution
Blueberries generally do not cause any side effects. However, those with underlying health conditions should check with their medical practitioner before adding blueberries to their diet.
Blueberries may also increase bleeding. They are a good source of Vitamin K, an anticoagulant. For those already taking the daily recommended amount of Vitamin K, a sudden increase might pose a risk.
Blueberries also lower the level of blood sugar in diabetics, so the consumption of berries should go hand in hand with monitoring for signs of hypoglycaemia.
It is advised that women who are pregnant or breastfeeding should consume blueberries in moderation, as the risks posed in consuming larger amounts is not known yet (1).
The key to healthier skin lies in overall good health. It has been proven that consumption of blueberries helps with several skin conditions and its topical application has been touted as the cure for damaged or acne-prone skin.
The presence of free radicals in the skin can cause severe skin damage. It can cause early signs of aging, such as wrinkles, dry skin, and age spots. The appearance of varicose veins and spider veins are other signs associated with aging. Varicose and spider veins are dilated blood vessels that are close enough to the skin to be visible. The skin may look splotchy due to weakened vessel walls.
Ingesting blueberries helps in reversing the signs of aging. A superfood, blueberries are rich in antioxidants. Antioxidants are molecules that inhibit the oxidization of other molecules. Oxidization is the loss of electrons in a molecule, which results in the production of free radicals. They can damage, or even destroy, cells completely. Antioxidants react with free radicals and prevent them from causing damage. A cup of wild blueberries has up to 13,427 antioxidants, including Vitamin A and C, as well as flavonoids (2).
The phytochemicals and antioxidants found in the fruit help to neutralize the free radicals, which prevents further damage. They are also helpful in strengthening blood vessels and healing broken capillaries (3).
Blueberries can be used as a substitute for chemical-based skin care products. A toning mask using blueberries, used once a week, can significantly reduce skin damage.
As the skin ages, dryness, wrinkles, and loss of elasticity are inevitable. But blueberries can help reverse the damage caused. The yogurt in the pack moisturizes, and the lactic acid present in it exfoliates dead skin cells.
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For those with skin that is prone to acne, blueberries can help you achieve blemish-free skin.
Blueberries have a high concentration of salicylates, which is the salt of the salicylic acid. Salicylic acid is widely used in topical acne treatment products. Its ability to remove dead skin, open clogged pores, and act against bacteria makes it a very effective treatment for acne (4).
A blueberry pack can be used to fight acne.
The application of this pack, once a week, can reduce the occurrence of acne and remove blemishes. It also helps in controlling the excess oil on skin.
Caution
Blueberry helps in clarifying skin, as does lemon. This face pack can cause dryness, which makes the use of a moisturizer a must post application.
Salicylate sensitivity is associated with the intake of blueberries. Those sensitive to salicylate, ingesting blueberries can cause side effects such as headaches or gastrointestinal problems.
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