by Gordon Hamilton

Created on: December 31, 2008   Last Updated: June 29, 2009

The term "blueberry" is one which is actually applied to a number of different sub-species of the same family of fruits. True blueberries are only found growing wild in North America and nowhere else on the planet but many similar fruits are given this name simply because it is the way in which their local name translates in to English. They are about the size of a large pea and a deep blue/purple colour on the outside but in the case of true blueberries are a pale green on the inside where other varieties are virtually the same colour throughout.

Blueberries are classed as being a "super fruit." They contain a higher concentration of anti-oxidants, called anthocyanidins - which are important for combating free radicals in the body - than any other fruit. This means that they prevent these free radicals from damaging the cellular structure within our bodies and are thus useful for preventing everything from cataracts, to heart disease, to certain types of cancer.

Blueberries have been shown in a number of clinical trials to significantly improve night vision. As far back as World War 2, British Royal Air Force pilots were consuming bilberries (a variation of blueberries) prior to flying night missions and reporting significant improvements in their night vision as a consequence. Similar findings have been made in a number of studies since upon various night workers.

Laboratory studies on animals have suggested that blueberries can also produce higher brain function. This can be beneficial in areas such as improving our memories and off-setting or perhaps even preventing the development of Alzheimer's Disease.

In Medieval times in Europe, bilberries were believed to help regulate the menstrual cycle of women. Unlike most medical "beliefs" of the time, this theory may have some basis in fact as blueberries have been shown to have significant health benefits for our intestinal and urinary systems.

Vitamins C and E are also proficient in blueberries, as is fibre and natural manganese.

Blueberries are of course commonly made in to Blueberry Pies, juiced or preserved in a variety of different ways, but I know that my favourite way to eat them is raw. Try mixing an equal quantity of blueberries and black grapes for your next snack in front of the TV. The double beauty here is that as well as being nutritious, they are also absolutely delicious!

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