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Difference between cultivated blueberries and wild blueberries
Whether blueberry, bilberry, blackberry, wild berry, forest berry or cranberry – the little blueberries have many names and yet one thing in common: they are super healthy! Let’s differentiate between wild blueberries and cultivated blueberries. The former grow mainly in forests and in heath and moorland and are also more nutritious than the cultivated blueberry. The cultivated blueberry is not derived from the native berry, but is a cross between the American blueberry and various other varieties. The berries have white flesh and a thick skin, which gives them a longer shelf life. Both types of blueberries are available in supermarkets and markets during the summer months. In the winter months, on the other hand, they come as import goods from Chile or Peru.
Identify fresh fruit
Freshness is particularly important with blueberries, as the small berries cannot be stored for long. When picking, you should carefully strip the berries from the bush and store them in containers that are as flat as possible so that they do not crush each other. Already picked berries from the supermarket should look plump and have a light layer of fur . Bare, very dark and wilting berries are no longer fresh. A little tip: In some supermarkets, the berries are offered for sale in refrigerated displays. The risk of spoiled berries is lowest there. Fresh fruit can be stored in the fridge after picking or buying .
Nutritional values & ingredients of blueberries
Fresh blueberries contain a lot of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants , such as anthocyanins, with a low calorie density. Various studies have shown that the secondary plant substance anthocyanin helps to intercept and neutralize free radicals in the body. Among other things, this can prevent cancer and slow down the aging process. Blueberries also contain valuable tannins that have a positive effect on digestion.
| Ingredients per 100 grams | amount |
| calories | 42 |
| protein | 0,6 g |
| fat | 0,5 g |
| carbohydrates | 7,4 g |
| fiber | 4,9 g |
| Magnesium | 2 mg |
| calcium | 12 mg |
| Requirements | 0,7 mg |
| Potassium | 73 mg |
| Vitamin C | 30 mg |
| Vitamin E | 1,9 mg |
How good are frozen blueberries?
Frozen blueberries have the advantage that they are available all year round. A study shows that vitamins in frozen fruit last longer than initially thought. The prerequisite for this is that the berries are shock-frozen quickly after harvesting and that the cold chain is maintained. The study found that frozen berries contain more vitamin C than those that have been picked and stored. With regard to roughage, minerals and antioxidants, no difference to the fresh product could be determined. But it also applies to frozen fruits that the nutrients are not available in full in unlimited quantities.
Healthy Effects of Blueberries
Blueberries are true domestic superfoods that can be eaten with no regrets. Their ingredients and low calorie count also make them a perfect food to use for weight loss. But the berries also work in other areas of the body:
1. Blueberries boost the immune system
Blueberries contain a lot of vitamins C and E and strengthen the immune system thanks to their antibacterial effect. Vitamin C also promotes the absorption of iron and supports collagen synthesis, so that the skin is tightened from the inside. Iron ensures the formation of the red blood pigment hemoglobin , while potassium and magnesium control the transmission of impulses in the nerves and the water balance and help against muscle weakness , tiredness and listlessness. The calcium in the blueberries also strengthens the bones .
2. Blueberries against digestive problems
The small berries have almost 5 grams of fiber per 100 grams. These indigestible plant components in fresh blueberries have a positive effect on stomach and intestinal health by promoting digestion. Their tannins, which are mainly found in high concentrations in dried blueberries, act against diarrhea , inhibit bacterial growth and promote the healing of inflammation of the mucous membranes . The dye delphinidin inhibits an intestinal enzyme that causes intestinal inflammation.
3. Blueberries for Anti-Inflammation
The blue pigment in blueberries, the anthocyanins, are responsible for the fact that blueberries work so well against inflammation. They are said to reduce the risk of cancer and protect cells from oxidative stress .
4. Blueberries lower blood pressure
According to a study , blueberries lower blood pressure. The study participants were given 200 grams of blueberry juice daily for several weeks . The result: after just a few hours, the test subjects’ blood pressure dropped. However, the effect only lasted for a short time. The researchers suspected that the antihypertensive effect is due to the polyphenols , which apparently keep the blood vessels flexible.
