Blueberries are native to the United States. Native Americans were the first to discover these blue pearls. They were found in bogs and in the forest. Settlers from the New World, Pilgrims, found this bounty of goodness, but were unable to farm and grow blueberries until the Wampanoag Indians taught them how to master agriculture of plenty in the New World. The Pilgrims were shown the many uses of the era. Blueberry Juice was used for coughs and tea from the leaves was thought to be good for the blood. The juice was also used as a dye for clothes and baskets. Berries were dried, crushed into powder and rubbed into meat for added flavor and also used with beef in making beef jerky. The Native Americans also put blueberries in soups and stews.

Today- blueberries are a staple in our grocery stores. You can either find them fresh or frozen. More than 38 states farm blueberries commercially. North America accounts for 90% of the world market of blueberry production. Many countries around the world the globe have realized the value of blueberries nutritionally and economically. At this time Japan is gaining momentum in this enterprise as they are consuming more than 500 metric tons yearly. Humans are not only lovers of blueberries, deer, ducks, birds, bears, consuming these as often as they can. Due to the popularity and notoriety of blueberries, July is National Blueberry Month. This was decided by US Security of Agriculture Ann M. Veneman in July 2003.

Blueberries are a rich source of: Polyphenols, Salicylic Acid, Carotenoids, Fiber, Folate, Vitamin C, Vitamin E, Potassium, Manganese, Iron, Riboflavin, Niacin, Phytoestrogens.

Of all the Superfoods, blueberries are considered as one the top 3, Salmon, Spinach, Blueberries. Researchers know that increased blood levels of antioxidants have shown favorability in reducing the risk of breast cancers. This was done by eating the whole fruit, not from extracts or supplements. The carotenoids found in blueberries will help regulate the immune system, increase UV protection of your skin exposure, inhibits abnormal cell growth, helps to decrease the incidence of age related macular degeneration. On a most recent update on the benefits of eating blueberries is the discovery that blueberries can help protect the brain against oxidative stress, which may lessen the effects of Alzheimer's disease and dementia.

Blueberries seem to slow, even reverse many degenerative diseases associated with the aging brain. And with the ever growing aging population, by the year 2050, 30% of Americans will be over 65. The continued research being done to find ways to slow diseases, prevent diseases and cure diseases with our superfoods will ensure in generations to come a healthier and better quality of life.

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