Berries are in season and they are a perfect natural summer snack! They are extremely rich with antioxidants which help prevent and even fight cancer. They are also very low on the Glycemic Index, which ranks how fast and how high a food raises the body's blood glucose or blood sugar level. Low-GI foods can help you to feel fuller for longer after eating. This can help you to either lose weight or to maintain a healthy weight because when eating them you are less likely to want to snack or to pick at food between meals. Low-GI foods can also help reduce your risk of developing Type 2 Diabetes, heart disease and certain eye diseases.Blueberries are especially noteworthy for their nutritional benefits and are loaded with Vitamin C, B Complex, Vitamin E, Vitamin A and more. In just one serving, you can get 14 mg of Vitamin C, almost 25 percent of your daily requirement! Vitamin C aids the formation of collagen and helps maintain healthy gums and capillaries. It also promotes iron absorption and a healthy immune system.
Blueberries are loaded with dietary fiber. Research has shown that most of us don’t get enough fiber in our diets. Eating foods high in fiber will help keep you regular, your heart healthy and your cholesterol in check. A handful of blueberries can help you meet your daily fiber requirement.
Additionally, blueberries are an excellent source of manganese. Manganese plays an important role in bone development and in converting the proteins, carbohydrates and fats in food into energy.
Blueberries are also leaders in antioxidant activity. According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), blueberries are near the top when it comes to antioxidant activity per serving (ORAC values). Antioxidants work to neutralize free radicals - unstable molecules linked to the development of cancer, cardiovascular disease and other age-related conditions such as Alzheimer’s Disease. Substances in blueberries called polyphenols (specifically the anthocyanins that gives the fruit its blue hue) are the major contributors to antioxidant antioxidant activity.
To get the amazing health benefits of berries, eat them fresh or frozen. Great creative and use them in tasty creations such as smoothies. Plain frozen Blueberries are one of my daughter's favorite summer snacks. It's as easy to prepare as opening the freezer bag and filling a bowl!
Patriotic Yogurt Popsicles
Ingredients:
• 1 Cup Organic Yogurt, mixed well
• 1 Cup Fresh or Frozen Berries (use a red and blue berry combination: blueberries and strawberries, raspberries and blackberries, etc.)
• 1-2 Tbs honey (raw honey is best)
• Popsicle Kit (Keep it natural by buying ones made from stainless steel or BPA-free plastic - available at many grocery stores, home stores or online)
Directions:
Place the yogurt and honey in a blender. Blend until mixed. Add berries and blend just enough to mix them in (to keep the red and blue colors distinct) or to desired consistency. Pour into popsicle holders and follow manufacture's instructions. Put into freezer for about 5 hours or until frozen solid. Enjoy!
