By Gerard Krewer
University of Georgia

For more than 60 years, the University of Georgia’s
blueberry-breeding program has developed varieties adapted to the
state, where farmers now have the fifth-largest blueberry
production in the nation.

Growers have planted millions of blueberry bushes as a cash crop.
Homeowners have planted countless bushes, too. Everyone knew the
delicious berries were great to eat. But only recently has their
hidden health value been revealed.

It turns out that this humble fruit, native to the river basins
of south Georgia, is one of the world’s great health treasures.

Antioxidants

Blueberries are one of the richest sources of antioxidants, which
help human bodies prevent cancer, heart disease and stroke.

Scientists have long known that blueberries contain vitamins A, C
and E. This is where some of the antioxidants are located.
However, anthocyanins and other compounds, some of which provide
their rich blue color, are blueberries’ major sources of
antioxidants.

Researchers at the U.S. Department of Agriculture and Tufts
University have shown that blueberry extract can improve the
motor skills of both mice and humans.

Mice fed blueberry extract had improved memory, too. Research is
under way to see if blueberries can improve human memory.

Still more

Blueberries also contain the cancer-fighting compound, ellagic
acid. And they have significant amounts of dietary fiber, which
helps prevent colon cancer.

Recent research by the UGA food scientists indicates that
phenolic compounds found in blueberries work against colon cancer
cell lines.

These amazing berries contain a compound that helps prevent
urinary infections, too, by keeping bacteria from attaching to
the urinary tract lining.

As you can see, blueberries have benefits from the top to the
bottom. The harvest is in full swing in Georgia, too, so you can
get fresh blueberries now from the grocery store or produce
market.

Freeze ’em

Frozen blueberries are another economical source of health
benefits. You can pick you own at many Georgia farms and freeze
them. Or you can buy them in plastic bags at the store.

For the past year, I’ve been eating them almost every day with my
breakfast cereal. I’ve much felt better since I started regularly
including blueberries in my diet.

If you’d like to plant blueberries in your yard, they’re fairly
easy to care for and can provide years of health-enhancing
berries.

The on-line Georgia Extension publication, “Home Garden
Blueberries,” (pubs.caes.uga.edu/caespubs/pubcd/l106-w.html)
can show you how to grow them.

Or ask your UGA Extension Service county agent, who can also
direct you to any nearby pick-your-own blueberry farm.

(Gerard Krewer is an Extension Service horticulturist with the
University of Georgia College of Agricultural and Environmental
Sciences.)