Cranberries are a genus of the cranberry family. The genus consists of about 450 species.
The colours of the different types are deep blue, reddish brown and purple black.
The surface of the berries is covered with a greyish-white waxy outer layer. Inside the flesh are small seeds. It is also cultivated in Hungary. Its season lasts from July to September.
Physiological effects of blueberries
Blueberries are one of the foods that are known as superfoods because of their special health benefits, thanks to the valuable nutrients, essential fatty acids and antioxidants they contain.
What makes blueberries so special is that they contain a unique array of phytonutrients and antioxidants. The most valuable of the phytonutrients in the fruit are the anthocyanidins. These anthocyanidins are able to neutralise harmful free radicals produced in the body.
It is also quite surprising that regular consumption of blueberries does not only have an effect on a specific place, but on the body as a whole. Thanks to this, it not only affects the cardiovascular system, but the whole body.
Repeated studies have shown that regular consumption of blueberries has been shown to improve the balance of blood lipids. This means that it lowers total cholesterol, increases HDL cholesterol and lowers triglycerides.
Many people may ask the question: blueberries or bilberries?
The answer is simple, the only difference between the two is that blueberries are much larger and therefore contain more antioxidants.
One of the benefits of blueberries is that they are a great source of vitamins.
The berries are rich in antioxidants and therefore protect the brain from oxidative stress, improve memory and reduce symptoms of depression. The effects of blueberries may also be important for older people. In one study, older people with an average age of 76 were tested for 12 weeks. They consumed blueberries every day, and by the end of the test, they showed significant improvements in cognitive function and memory tests.
According to the study authors, the results suggest that blueberries are not only useful for improving memory, but may also be able to slow the onset of cognitive problems associated with ageing.
It is worth choosing healthy brightly coloured blueberry seeds, which have a uniform hue and still have a white waxy protective coating.
Ripe blueberry seeds can be frozen, but be aware that the taste and texture of the fruit will change when thawed. In this case, it is best to use them for baking or making smoothies. In smoothies, they can also be frozen and grated.
Blueberries are moderately low in carbohydrates, so they can be included in many diets, including low-carbohydrate diets.
In general, 100 grams of the berries contain the following nutritional values:
Calorie content: approximately 57 kcal
Carbohydrate content: approximately 14,5 grams
Of which sugar: about 10 grams
Fibre: about 2,4 grams
