A mate was telling me a reason of why blueberries were so good for you recently (he only had one) and neither of us couldn’t remember the specific term used….catechins it appears to be.  So I did a quick web search and found this.  If you want to check out the source it’s at the bottom of the page.  Thanks care2.com  Nice work.

My reason – a handful of ripe blueberries (in my favourite variety, Alice) is my favourite fruit to eat.  Repeat that 10-20 times, you’ll need to find a toilet within the hour.  I can see why they might be popular in weight loss programs! Here’s the reasons;

1.  Catechins found in blueberries activate fat-burning genes in abdominal fat cells to assist with weight loss, and belly fat loss in particular.  According to research at Tufts University, regularly ingesting catechins increases abdominal fat loss by 77 percent and double total weight loss.

2.  They contain a group of natural phytonutrients (plant nutrient) called proanthocyanidins which have a unique ability to protect both the watery and fatty parts of the brain against damage from some environmental toxins.

3.  Blueberries are one of the richest sources of proanthocyanidins.  These phytonutrients decrease free radicals levels that are linked to aging (yes wrinkling!) and disease.

4.  In animal studies, those given an extract of blueberries had less motor skill decline and performed better on memory tests than animals not given the blueberries.  Researchers conclude that compounds in blueberries may reverse some age-related memory loss and motor skill decline.

Hampton Blue – In our study, blueberries have proven to have absolutely no improvement on hearing.  Say what Robert?  Luckily his eyesight’s still ok….and I run.

5.  Blueberries are packed with vitamins C, E, riboflavin, niacin, and folate.

6.  They are a rich source of the phytonutrients ellagic acid.  Ellagic acid has proven anticancer and genetic-material-protection capabilities.  It also encourages a healthy rate of apoptosis—how the body seeks out and destroys harmful or damaged cells, like cancer cells.

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