New research reveals the exciting fact that Blueberries provide an effective way to lower cholesterol without the dangers of statin drugs. In fact, the research shows that a compound in blueberries acts just as effectively as statin drugs to reduce the levels of bad cholesterol or LDL cholesterol in mice, but without the negative side effects of statin drugs.

Blueberries are a group of flowering plants in the genus Vaccinium, sect. Cyanococcus. The species are native to North America and eastern Asia. They are shrubs varying in size from 10 cm tall to 4 m tall; the smaller species are known as “lowbush Blueberries“, and the larger species as “highbush blueberries“.

Blueberries are phytonutrient superstars. These fruits contain significant amounts of anthocyanidins, antioxidant compounds that give blue, purple and red colors to fruits and vegetables. In addition, Blueberries also contain Ellagic Acid, another phytochemical that has been shown to prevent cell damage.

Blueberries are a very good source of vitamin C, manganese, and both soluble and insoluble fiber like pectin. Blueberries are also a good source of vitamin E.

Blueberries are literally bursting with nutrients and flavor, yet very low in calories. Recently, researchers at Tufts University analyzed 60 fruits and vegetables for their antioxidant capability. Blueberries came out on top, rating highest in their capacity to destroy free radicals.

Packed with antioxidant phytonutrients called anthocyanidins, Blueberries neutralize free radical damage to the collagen matrix of cells and tissues that can lead to cataracts, glaucoma, varicose veins, hemorrhoids, peptic ulcers, heart disease and cancer. Anthocyanins, the blue-red pigments found in Blueberries improve the integrity of support structures in the veins and entire vascular system.

While wine, particularly red wine, is touted as cardio-protective since it is a good source of antioxidant anthocyanins, a recent study found that Blueberries deliver 38% more of these free radical fighters.

In addition to their powerful anthocyanins, Blueberries contain another antioxidant compound called ELLAGIC ACID, which blocks metabolic pathways that can lead to 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).

New research reveals the exciting fact that Blueberries provide an effective way to lower cholesterol without the dangers of statin drugs. In fact, the research shows that a compound in Blueberries acts just as effectively as statin drugs to reduce the levels of bad cholesterol or LDL cholesterol in mice, but without the negative side effects of statin drugs.

Research at Rutgers has also shown that Blueberries may help prevent urinary tract infections. All of these studies were conducted using high bush, hybrid cultivars of Blueberries.

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