15 Reasons to Enjoy Blueberry Month!
We over here at Earthy Naturals loves the month of July. July means we get to celebrate Independence Day, bring awareness to plastic-free living, and enjoy some pretty good, nice cream; yes, it is National Ice Cream Month, and we get to consume some delicious blueberries too. July is National Blueberry Month and today, is National Blueberry Day, so everywhere you turn, from farmer's markets to grocery, and even the big box stores, blueberries or items containing them are being highlighted or heavily promoted. The consumption of blueberries is the highest this month, followed by August because they are in season, so if you have a craving for these babies, now is the time to pick some up. We are enthusiast of fresh blueberries for many reasons, but will admit we freeze them and purchase them frozen to have whenever we want them for a snack, drink, or dish when they are out of season.
What are blueberries?
Blueberries are known as flavonoids; they are gorgeous pearl size berries with a blue, purplish hue, which are also called anthocyanin. The anthocyanin is what helps to decrease or prevent free radicals. Free radicals are erratic particles that can impair healthy cells, causing inflammatory diseases, like cancer. Blueberries can be eaten as is for a healthy snack or can be incorporated into an array of dishes ranging from breakfast to dessert, from virgin drink to non. Blueberries are delightful in both beverages and foods.
Why Blueberries?
Blueberries are incredibly healthy. They are an antioxidant, packed with vitamins, minerals, and fiber. They are low in calories, which helps in losing and maintaining weight. Like most berries, blueberries index low on the glycemic index coming in at about 52; this means they do not cause the blood sugar to spike. Blueberries are a superfood with mighty superpowers because of their high nutrient content; they help manage and even decrease cholesterol, sugar, and blood pressure numbers. If eaten in moderation, they can help reduce waist circumference numbers too. Due to their high fiber content, they help remove waste from the body regularly. If blueberries are to be the most impactful in a healthy lifestyle, it is best if they are consumed fresh and organic; though cooking them may still have the fiber benefits, it does lose some of the nutrient values in the process. Fresh and organic blueberries, tend to have miniscule or no pesticides on them making them safer to ingest.
Below are 15 ways you can utilize blueberries in your diet throughout the year. Had to add the blueberry muffins to the list first just in case you would like to join in the fun by making a dozen or so for National Blueberry Muffin Day, which is on Monday, July 11th in 2022. There is no better way to honor the day and month. Oh, it is also Mojito Day. You can add a refreshing vegan, virgin version if you don’t drink alcohol. This can pair well with muffins, and you can make it a blueberry themed mojito to commemorate the occasion.
15 ways to fall in love with blueberries
1. Blueberry Muffins/Bars
2. Blueberry Smoothie
3. Blueberry Waffles/Pancakes/French Toast (Gluten-free)
4. Blueberry Infused Water or Ice cubes
5. Blueberry Oatmeal
6. Blueberry Fruit Bowl/Acai Blueberry Goddess Bowl
7. Blueberry Margarita, Tequila, Mojito, Club Soda
8. Blueberry Nice Cream (Dairy Free)
9. Simply Blueberries (Nothing but blueberries)
10. Blueberry Ice Pops/Coquito
11. Blueberry Salad
12. Blueberry Jam
13. Blueberry Cheesecake
14. Blueberry Pie
15. Blueberry Yogurt
Conclusion
As you can see, there are many ways to enjoy blueberries. There are also plenty of healthy reasons to add these little blue-purplish beauties to your healthy diet. Since this is the season that blueberries are abundantly available, consider incorporating more of them into your meals this month. As mentioned in an Earthy Naturals' previous blog post (see below), you will notice a big difference in your nails, hair, and skin in no time when adding blueberries to your daily, weekly, or monthly regimen. Once you begin including blueberries into your diet, your nails will become longer and stronger quickly. There will be no denying it because it will be visual to the human eye within days.
Question(s) to Ponder
What will you put blueberries in or on, or will you eat it as is?
What health benefits has improved since you started eating more blueberries?
Precaution
Though blueberries are a superfood and offer plenty of health benefits, it is not for everyone. If you have an allergic reaction such as stomach aches, diarrhea, nausea, eczema, or nasal congestion, it may be time to stop the intake of these berries. If you take medications for high blood pressure, be careful when intaking large amounts of blueberries because it can lead to hypotension. All in all, blueberries are a powerhouse that is extremely good for you; however, everyone's body is different; therefore, err on caution with them and everything else you consume and use in and on your body.