http://www.huffingtonpost.com/leo-galland-md/blueberries-health-benefits_b_869196.html Afinele te ajuta sa lupti impotriva imbatranirii, a bolilor, scad tensiunea, protejeaza inima si imbunatatesc memoria.

Afinele se impart in doua mari specii: cele salbatice care sunt numite si low bush si afinele de cultura numite hign bush.Ambele au atras atentia cercetatorilor in ultimul timp. Blueberries are divided into two major species: the wild ones, which are called "low bush," and the farmed berries that are "high bush." Both types have received a great deal of favorable attention from scientists over the past several years. Blueberries boost memory Researchers at the University of Cincinnati Academic Health Center achieved very interesting results when they studied the connection between blueberries and memory. Their study on older adults with early memory decline found that memory function was boosted by drinking the juice of wild blueberries for 12 weeks. The University of Cincinnati researchers noted: "To our knowledge, this is the first human trial assessing the potential benefit of blueberry supplementation on neurocognitive function in older adults with increased risk for dementia." It should be noted that this study involved a small group who consumed blueberry juice with breakfast, lunch and dinner. Given the interest in finding solutions to the growing problem of cognitive decline in aging, larger studies on blueberries and the mind should follow. What gives blueberries their nutritional power:Blueberries are a good source of vitamin C, vitamin K and fiber. The color of blueberries, from deep blue to purple, is caused by a group of flavonoids called anthocyanins, which have remarkable antioxidant power. Laboratory tests suggest that anthocyanins may help to prevent degenerative diseases, including cancer, heart disease, stroke and memory loss.Blueberry anthocyanins may protect humans and animals from the effects of a condition known as oxidative stress, which underlies the common disorders associated with aging. Oxidative stress increases with high fat meals and with exposure to environmental toxins. Learn more about the benefits of anthocyanins in "Cherry Season: Fight Pain and Inflammation." Blueberries support heart health: Recent research supported by the United States Department of AgricultureResearch, Education and Economics shows that eating blueberries may help combat cardiovascular disease. Scientists at the University of Arkansas fed mice a diet enhanced with blueberry powder, and found that it helped reduce atherosclerosis. Publishing their findings in the Journal of Nutrition, the researchers indicate that the benefit may be from the antioxidant effect of the blueberries, reducing the oxidative stress that leads to heart disease. Here's what eating blueberries can do for oxidative stress:When healthy volunteers ate blueberry powder along with a high fat meal, the blueberries produced a significant increase in the antioxidant status of their blood, compared to the high fat meal alone.When mice stressed by aging or by toxins were fed blueberries at a dose that would equal one cup a day for a human, their brains revealed a decrease in damage from oxidative stress. Blueberry-fed mice performed better than "control" mice (not fed blueberries) on tests of learning, memory and coordination. Preventing urinary tract infections (UTIs): Like their cousins, cranberries, blueberries contain flavonoids that can possibly prevent urinary tract infections. Blueberry flavonoids prevent bacteria that cause urinary infections from binding to the lining of the bladder and can even inhibit the growth of bacteria. Research on blueberries, cancer and cholesterol:In addition to fighting oxidative stress, eating blueberries may potentially help to prevent cancer and heart disease through other mechanisms.Blueberry anthocyanins have shown the potential to possibly help inhibit the growth of colon cancer cells in certain research studies. A group of chemicals that are found in blueberries called stilbenes have possible cholesterol-lowering effects.

Enjoying blueberries In season, it is easy to find luscious blueberries with a sweet and tart flavor from the farmer's market, farm stand or supermarket.Before storing fresh berries, remove crushed, unripe or moldy fruit, and stems and leaves. Wash the berries just before you serve them. You can eat delicious blueberries as a snack or dessert anytime. Toss a handful of blueberries on your favorite foods, like cereal or granola, hot oatmeal, smoothies and yogurt. Frozen blueberries are a great way to enjoy berries all year round. The study on memory improvement from the University of Cincinnati used juice made from frozen wild blueberries, which indicates that frozen blueberries also have nutritional potency.Enjoying blueberries is a great way to boost consumption of fruit and vegetables to nine to 10 servings per day. That is the amount of fruit and vegetables I recommend in my healthy weight loss program. My son Jonathan Galland wrote this blueberry recipe for my book, The Fat Resistance Diet, an anti-inflammatory program. Blueberry cinnamon bowl An update on a morning tradition, here is a quick and easy hot breakfast. The aroma of blueberries and cinnamon rising from the bowl makes this a special treat. Oatmeal is a great source of cholesterol lowering fiber and cinnamon reduces insulin levels. 1/2 Cup rolled oats; 1/2 Cup fresh or frozen blueberries; 1 Tablespoon freshly ground flaxseeds; 1/2 Tablespoon ground walnuts; Dash of cinnamon. Bring 1 cup of water to a boil in a small saucepan, then stir in the oats. Cook for 4 minutes, then add the blueberries and cook until piping hot. Mix in the flaxseeds, walnuts, and cinnamon. Serves 1. Istoria afinelor http://www.blueberrycouncil.org/blueberry-facts/history-of-blueberries/ Aparute pe Pamant acum mai bine de 13000 ani, afinele sunt originare din America de Nord. Bastinasii le foloseau uscandu-le la soare si apoi adaugate in supa, tocanite si carne sau zdrobite sub forma de pudra adaugate in carne ca si conservant.Conform legendelor bastinasii continentului american dadeau pelerinilor afine pentru a ii ajuta sa treaca iarna.Ei numeau aceste fructe micute fructele de padure stea denumire care era datorata faptului ca calicele florii de afine formeaza o stea perfecta in cinci colturi. Ei foloseau afinele atat frunzele cat si radacina pentru scopuri medicinale si au creat una dintre primele retete gatite cu afine numita Sautauthig (care se pronunta sawi-taw-teeg).Aceasta budinca simpla facuta din afine, porumb crapat(sau mamaliga si apa era mancarea preferata a bastinasilor americani.Ea a devenit celebra si in randul colonistilor care au imbunatati-o daugandu-i lapte,unt ssi zahar si multi istorici cred ca era una din bucatele pregatite cu ocazia primei sarbatori a zilei recunostintei The blueberry may be small, but its no youngster. Botanists estimate blueberries burst onto the scene more than 13,000 years ago! Blueberries are indigenous to North America. When Europeans arrived on the continent, the Native Americans were already enjoying blueberries year-round. They dried blueberries in the sun and added them whole to soups, stews and meat, or crushed them into a powder rubbed into meat as a preservative. According to legend, Native Americans gave blueberries to the pilgrims to help them make it through their first winter.The Native Americans were just as energized by blueberries as people are today, and developed folklore around the dynamic little blue fruit. Tribal elders recounted how the Great Spirit sent star berries to ease the childrens hunger during a famine. They called blueberries star berries because the blossom end of each berry the calyx forms a perfect five-pointed star.The Native Americans used blueberries (and their leaves and roots) for medicinal purposes, and developed one of the first blueberry baked goods, which they called Sautauthig (pronounced sawi-taw-teeg). This simple pudding made with blueberries, cracked corn (or samp) and water was a Native American favorite. Sautautig became popular

among the settlers too; they added milk, butter and sugar to the recipe, and many historians believe it was part of the first Thanksgiving feast.Across the Atlantic, the Europeans turned to close cousins of blueberries called bilberries for a variety of medicinal practices. They brewed bilberry roots into a tea to help women relax during childbirth, used bilberry syrup to treat coughs and associated the berries with good eyesight. Its just like blueberries to be at the center of so much attention Informatii nutritionale: http://nutritiondata.self.com/facts/fruits-and-fruit-juices/1851/2

Antioxidant Fruit Power!The USDA Human Nutrition Research Center on Aging in Boston has developed
an assay, called ORAC (oxygen radical absorbance capacity), which quantifies the antioxidant capacity of foods. Fresh blueberries have a high level of ORAC, 2400 per 100 grams. Five servings of some fruits and vegetables in a typical American diet have an ORAC score of 1600.From an antioxidant capacity standpoint, 100 grams (3.5 oz.) of fresh blueberries could deliver the equivalent antioxidant capacity of five servings of some fruits and vegetables a good reason to include blueberries as part of a varied diet. http://www.womenfitness.net/blueberries.htm 1. The highest antioxidant capacity of all fresh fruit: Blue Berries, being very rich in anti oxidants like Anthocyanin, vitamin C, B complex, vitamin E, vitamin A, copper (a very effective immune builder and anti-bacterial), selenium, zinc, iron (promotes immunity by raising haemoglobin and oxygen concentration in blood) etc. boost up your immune system and prevent infections. Once your immunity is strong, you wont catch colds, fever, pox and all such nasty viral and bacterial communicable diseases. 2. Neutralizes free radicals which can affect disease and aging in the body: Blue Berries bring you the brightest ray of hope, for they are laden with anti oxidants and rank number 1 in the world of anti oxidants. This is mainly due to presence of Anthocyanin, a pigment responsible for the blue color of the blue berries. The abundance of vitamin-C is also a big factor for this as well. 3. Aid in reducing Belly Fat: A new University of Michigan Cardiovascular Center study suggests that blueberries may help reduce belly fat and risk factors for cardiovascular disease and metabolic syndrome. So far, we know that the fruit works on rats, which were the test subjects. A blueberryenriched powder was mixed into the rats' diet, which was either low-fat or high-fat rat chow. After 90 days, the rats with the blueberry-enriched diet had less abdominal fat, lower triglycerides, lower cholesterol and improved fasting glucose and insulin sensitivity. And their health was even better when combined with the low-fat diet. That group had lower body weight, lower total fat mass and reduced liver mass than the rats on the high-fat diet. An enlarged liver is linked to obesity and insulin resistance, a hallmark of diabetes. Although more research is needed to confirm these results in humans, a related study presented at the same conference showed that men with risk factors for heart disease who drank wild blueberry juice for three weeks seemed to experience slight improvements in glucose and insulin control. 4. Helps promote urinary tract health: The building of colonies of certain bacteria like b-coli along the lining of the inner walls of urinary tract is responsible for this infection, resulting in inflammation, burning sensation during in passage of urine and other complications. Here, Blue Berries can be surprisingly beneficial. It has a compound formed of big polymer like heavy molecules which inhibits the growth of such bacteria. It also has some anti biotic properties which adds to this effect. These heavy and big molecules almost wash-off these bacteria along the tract, thereby preventing the infection. 5. Been proved to preserve vision: Blueberry extract, high in compounds called anthocyanosides, has been found in clinical studies to slow down visual loss. They can prevent or delay all age related

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ocular problems like macular degeneration, cataract, myopia and hypermetropia, dryness and infections, particularly those pertaining to retina, due to their anti-oxidant properties. Blue Berries contain a special group of anti oxidants called Carotenoids (lutein, zeaxanthin etc.), Flavonoids (like rutin, resveritrol, quercetin etc.), in addition to others such as vitamin C, vitamin E and vitamin A, selenium, zinc and phosphorus, which are very beneficial and essential for the ocular health. Data reported in a study published in the Archives of Ophthalmology indicates that eating 3 or more servings of fruit per day may lower your risk of age-related macular degeneration (ARMD), the primary cause of vision loss in older adults, by 36%, compared to persons who consume less than 1.5 servings of fruit daily. Brain Health: The anthocyanin, the selenium, the vitamins A, B-complex, C and E, the zinc, sodium, potassium, copper, magnesium, phosphorus, manganese etc., among others, can prevent and heal neurotic disorders by preventing degeneration and death of neurons, brain-cells and also by restoring health of the central nervous system. It is hard to believe that these berries can also cure serious problems like Alzheimers disease to a great extent. They even heal damaged brain cells and neuron tissues and keep your memory sharp for a long-long time. Researchers found that diets rich in blueberries significantly improved both the learning capacity and motor skills of aging animals, making them mentally equivalent to much younger ones. Heart Disease: The high fiber content, those brilliant anti oxidants and the ability to dissolve the bad cholesterol make the Blue Berry an ideal dietary supplement to cure many heart diseases. It also strengthens the cardiac muscles. In this study, published in the Journal of Agriculture and Food Chemistry, researchers found that a moderate drink (about 4 ounces) of white wine contained .47 mmol of free radical absorbing antioxidants, red wine provided 2.04 mmol, and a wine made from highbush blueberries delivered 2.42 mmol of these protective plant compounds. Constipation & Digestion: While roughage (fiber) in Blue Berries keep away constipation (Of course, a single piece alone will not do. You need to eat a big handful of them), the vitamins, sodium, copper, fructose and acids improve digestion. Cancer: Blue Berries can prove to be bliss for the cancer patients, for they contain certain compounds like Pterostilbene (excellent remedy for colon and liver cancer) and Ellagic Acid which, in harmony with Anthocyanin and other anti oxidants like vitamin-C and copper, can do miracles to prevent and cure cancer. Laboratory studies published in the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry show that phenolic compounds in blueberries can inhibit colon cancer cell proliferation and induce apoptosis (programmed cell death). A significant 34% reduction in ovarian cancer risk was also seen in women with the highest intake of the flavone luteolin (found in citrus). Other benefits & facts: They keep you fresh, active, fit, sharp, close to nature and in a good mood, as they are very good anti depressants. You also need not spend a lot on medicines, neither are there any side effects. Remember, the deeper the color of the Blue Berries, the more they are rich in anti oxidants and other medicinal values.

http://www.livestrong.com/article/290521-ellagic-acid-in-blueberries/ acidul elagic!!!! Blueberries are seasonal North American berries in the same family as the cranberries. Their sweet but slightly tangy flavors provide contrast. Blueberries are often a main ingredient in baked goods and juices. Beyond taste, blueberries are a great source of antioxidants, specifically ellagic acid. Blueberries also provide vitamin C, vitamin E and manganese; they are also low in calories. Several medical research studies have shown that ellagic acid is successful in use for use in the treatment of cancer. Types of Blueberries: Blueberries grow on shrubs and vary in size. Conventional store bought blueberries are quite large, almost the size of a dime. In contrast, wild blueberries are smaller, almost miniature in size. You can buy fresh blueberries from late spring until autumn in the United States at grocery stores or farmers markets; frozen and dried blueberries are available year-round.

Ellagic Acids Defined: Ellagic acid is one type of beneficial antioxidant. It is found in blueberries and in several types of fruits, nuts and berries, such as pomegranates, strawberries and walnuts. Many studies have found that ellagic acid plugs up metabolic paths that cause cancers. Ellagic acid also prevents binding of carcinogens to DNA and prohibits mutations within cellular DNA. It also inhibits cancer by killing off cancerous cells and stopping the growth of tumors. In addition to prohibiting cancer, ellagic acid is antibacterial and also lowers glucose levels. Other Antioxidants: Blueberries also are a rich source of anthocyanins, another type of dietary antioxidant compound. Anthocyanins are the pigments in fruits, vegetables and flowers that produce blue, red or purple colors. Anthocyanins are helpful in slowing the aging process and reducing overall inflammation. These antioxidants are also helpful in fighting heart disease, tumors, blood clots and allergies. Additional Health Benefits: In addition to ellagic acid, blueberries also contain soluble fiber and pectin, which helps lower cholesterol and keeps bile functional. According to several studies, eating blueberries also may help with brain cognition and function. Blueberries also have special substances that stop the binding of bacteria to the bladder. Eating blueberries or drinking unsweetened blueberry juice can help reduce urinary tract infections Using Blueberries: For fresh blueberries, wash them gently just before eating. Blueberries can be very fragile, so protect them from bruising. Frozen berries can be thawed for use in recipes or even eaten frozen as an iced treat on a hot day. Blueberries can be used in a variety of ways, including: making parfaits, topping breakfast cereals or waffles or baking muffins or pies. Some home chefs use blueberries for savory dishes, like a salads or sauces.Blueberries are packed with beneficial nutrients improved memory, better gastrointestinal function and cancer prevention, according to the Highbush Blueberry Council. A study in the 2010 "Journal of Agriculture and Food Chemistry" led by researcher Robert Krikorian reported that blueberries may help protect against dementia. Vitamins: One cup of blueberries provides 14.1 mg of vitamin C, or approximately 30 percent of the daily value for vitamin C, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Nutrient Data Lab. Vitamin C is important for immune function, healing and collagen formation within the body. Vitamin C also improves iron absorption. Blueberries also provide 0.83 mg per cup, or close to 10 percent of the daily value for Vitamin E, a fat soluble vitamin that acts as an antioxidant and protects cells from damage. Vitamin E plays a role in immune function, as well. Antioxidants:The antioxidants in blueberries are known as phytonutrients, and divide into categories of anthocyanins and phenolics. Anthocyanins give blueberries their blue color. They provide structure and support to the veins in the entire vascular system, as well as neutralize free radicals in the body, which can hep prevent cancer, according to a study published in 2001 in the "Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry" led by researcher Mark Ehlenfeldt. Fiber:Blueberries also contain fiber, which can help relieve both diarrhea and constipation. That's because the berries contain both soluble and insoluble fiber. Blueberries contain pectin,, which slows digestion and the absorption of sugar. That helps control blood sugar, according to "Herbs, Botanicals and Teas," by Dave Oomah. Blueberries also contain tannins, which act as astringents in the digestive system to reduce inflammation, according to the "Manual of Phytochemistry," by Dr. Mazen El-Sakka. Ellagic acid is a type of chemical found in a variety of fruits, berries and plants. Foods high in ellagic acid include raspberries, pomegranates, blackberries, pecans and walnuts. In plants, ellagic acid helps protect against bacteria and pests, while in humans ellagic acid may provide many health benefits in the prevention of a variety of diseases.Ellagic acid is a potent antioxidant important in clearing free radicals

from the body. Free radicals are natural byproducts of many different chemical reactions in the body, but are also found in the environment through exposure to radiation, automobile exhaust, heavy metals and smoke, according to the website DoctorsLounge. These unstable and highly reactive molecules can interact and disrupt many different reactions in the body, resulting in irreversible damage. They have been implicated as playing a role in a variety of conditions, such as the aging process, heart disease and cancer. Ellagic acid may bind or interrupt free radical-induced damage or prevent free radicals from forming all together.Ellagic acid may have anticarcinogenic effects for a variety of cancers such as breast, colon, prostate, skin, pancreas and esophagus. An anticarcinogenic molecule is defined as any chemical that reduces the occurrence or severity of cancers, while carcinogens are any molecule that is known to cause cancer, such as benzene, radiation or asbestos, according to the American Cancer Society. Ellagic acid may combine with cancer-causing molecules, preventing damage, and they also inhibit the growth of certain tumors. Ellagic acid may also prevent the destruction of a certain gene known as p53, which has been linked to a variety of cancers when normal function in disrupted. However, more research studies are needed to determine the effectiveness of ellagic acid as an anticarcinogen in humans.Skin Benefits According to a research study in the August 2010 issue of "Experimental Dermatology," ellagic acid has several benefits for the skin. Collagen is an important protein that adds elasticity to skin, and degradation can lead to wrinkles. Ultraviolet light can increase the activity of proteins in the skin called MMPs, or matrix metalloproteinases, which can degrade collagen. Ellagic acid was shown to inhibit the production of MMPs by ultraviolet light and thus help prevent wrinkles. Ellagic acid was also shown to weaken a variety of ultraviolet light-induced inflammatory molecules that play a role in skin damage. Ellagic acid is a phytochemical found in fruits and nuts, which functions as an antioxidant. Antioxidants are compounds that prevent damage to cells in your body that lead to degenerative diseases like heart disease and cancer. Ellagic acid is found naturally in pomegranates, blackberries, raspberries, cranberries, pecans and walnuts. The American Cancer Society recognizes that ellagic acid may be beneficial to health, although they state that more research in humans is needed. Cancer and other health conditions should always be treated under the supervision of a physician. May Prevent Cancer : According to the American Cancer Society, animal studies show that ellagic acid slows tumor growth associated with some types of carcinogens. A study published in the January/February 2001 issue of "Anticancer Research" found that ellagic acid induces death of abnormal cells that may lead to cancer. Ellagic acid also reduces estrogen's effect in the promotion of breast cancer. Though research is promising regarding ellagic acid's efficacy in treating cancer in animals, more human research is needed. Reduces Atherosclerosis : Atherosclerosis, or hardening of the arteries as a result of plaque buildup, increases the risk of developing heart disease. According to a study published in 2008 in "The British Journal of Nutrition," ellagic acid in walnut extract reduces inflammation responses in blood vessels, which in turn reduces buildup of plaque. Promotes Liver Health: Oxidative stress, which occurs during normal energy metabolism, creates highly reactive free radicals that can damage organs and tissues. A study published in the April 2010 issue of "Biomedicine and Pharmacotherapy" found that ellagic acid protects liver cells from oxidative stress by reacting with free radicals before they can cause damage. Ellagic acid may alter the metabolism of certain medications or other dietary supplements, so it is important to consult with your healthcare provider before taking ellagic acid.