fbpx

Blueberries Help Prevent Diabetes and Macular Degeneration

blueberries
image courtesy of USGS

New research published in the Journal of Nutrition shows that the bioactive ingredients in blueberries may help people fend off diabetes.

A study of people who were at risk for diabetes (obese and insulin-resistant but not yet diagnosed with diabetes) showed that consuming smoothies rich in blueberry bioactives twice per day for 6 weeks showed a 22% change in insulin sensitivity.  This was the first study of its kind to indicate that the nutrients in blueberries can help regulate insulin levels in at-risk adults.  It is believed that the flavonoids in blueberries – in particular anthocyanins and flavanols – are responsible for this positive effect.

Source: Nutraingredients

Blueberries are also great for the eyes as they are rich in antioxidants.  Studies have linked blueberries and other antioxidants to the prevention of macular degeneration.