Blueberries not only taste great; they are also an excellent source of phytonutrients, especially the potent antioxidants known as anthocyanins, which give the berries their color. Other phytonutrients in blueberries include caffeic acids, coumaric acids, quercetin, pterostilbene, and resveratrol, among others, and virtually all of them work together to provide both antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits.
Blueberries have been shown to help lower cholesterol, support blood vessel health, improve memory, promote eye health, and perhaps even offer some anticancer benefits. But domestic conventionally grown blueberries are a source of pesticides residues as well, so look for organic varieties.
References
Krikorian R et al. Blueberry supplementation improves memory in older adults. J Agric Food Chem 2010 Apr 14; 58(7): 3996-4000
McCormack D, McFadden D. Pterostilbene and cancer: current review. J Surg Res 2011 Oct 21
Seeram NP et al. Blackberry, black raspberry, blueberry, cranberry, red raspberry, and strawberry extract inhibit growth and stimulate apoptosis of human cancer cells in vitro. J Agric Food Chem 2006 Dec 13; 54(25): 9329-39
