Scientists talked about the benefits of wild blueberries for the heart and intestines

Regular consumption of wild blueberries can support heart and intestinal health, as well as reduce risk factors for chronic diseases. This was reported on March 16 in the journal Medical Xpress.

According to the researchers, wild blueberries contain a large number of polyphenols, biologically active compounds that have a beneficial effect on the vascular system. Compared to regular blueberries, the wild variety contains about twice as many antioxidants, 72% more dietary fiber, and 33% more anthocyanins, substances associated with improved cardiometabolic health.

Dorothy Klimis-Zakas, Professor of Clinical Nutrition, noted that the optimal daily serving is from half to one cup of berries. According to her, wild blueberries can help reduce inflammation and improve the condition of blood vessels. Studies have shown that berries affect the endothelium, a thin layer of cells lining the inner surface of blood vessels and regulating their expansion and contraction. Endothelial disorders are considered one of the factors in the development of cardiovascular diseases.

In preclinical experiments, scientists found that in animals with high blood pressure and obesity, after six weeks of eating wild blueberries, inflammatory processes decreased and vascular condition improved. Additional analysis showed that the berries are able to change the structure of vascular tissue through glycoproteins, molecules involved in the transmission of signals between endothelial cells.

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In addition, experts have studied the effect of wild blueberries on glucose and fat metabolism, inflammatory processes and the state of intestinal microflora. According to scientists, the data obtained indicate a possible role of these berries in maintaining a normal metabolism.

The researchers note that the beneficial properties are preserved in both fresh and frozen or freeze-dried blueberries. Frozen berries are considered a convenient option because they are usually frozen shortly after harvesting, which helps preserve nutrients. According to experts, wild blueberries may be especially useful for people with risk factors for cardiovascular diseases, such as smokers, patients with high blood pressure, obesity, diabetes, or impaired fat metabolism.

The journal Medical Xpress reported that dark sweet cherries can slow down the growth of an aggressive form of breast cancer due to natural compounds — anthocyanins. In experiments on mice, these substances slowed down the development of tumors and reduced the spread of cancer cells to other organs.

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