Blueberry is a little-known and considered exotic fruit in Brazil. It is very characteristic, as it has a blue skin, in addition to the sweet taste.
Learn a little more about this fruit that has been quite popular recently:
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What is blueberry and what is it for?
Blueberry is a fruit produced by shrubs native to North America and known as small forests. In Brazil, it is grown in the southern states (Rio Grande do Sul, Santa Catarina and Paraná). Generally, it can be consumed by everyone and has health benefits.
This fruit can be purchased with several presentations: fresh, dehydrated, powdered and added in supplements.
In addition to being consumed in natura, this fruit can also become jellies, juices, vitamins , wines and enter the composition of cosmetic products. The leaves and peels can be used to make teas and some natural remedies as well.
You can also compose sweet and savory dishes such as cakes, pies, sauces, salads, crackers, pancakes and pasta in general.
The blueberry is a fruit with low calories: 100g (about 25 berries) contains only 57kcal, which makes it a good option for those who want to maintain or lose weight.
It is rich in anthocyanins. This is the substance responsible for the blue-purple color of the fruit and is also present, to a lesser extent, in other foods (grapes, blackberry , red cabbage and red onion).
Anthocyanins have some health benefits: they help you lose weight because they give you the feeling of satiety and can help prevent cancer .
Because it is rich in nutrients, the consumption of this fruit is recommended for everyone who wishes to diversify their diet in a healthy way.
Recommended daily consumption is:
| Fresh blueberry | Blueberry powder |
| between 20g and 60g (from 5 to 15 fruits). | about 140g (5 tablespoons) |
What vitamins do you have in blueberries?
Blueberries contain properties such as vitamins (A, B6, C, E and K) and minerals (manganese, calcium, iron, zinc, potassium and phosphorus).
Find out what the benefits of some of these substances are:
- Vitamin A: helps in eye and skin health;
- Vitamin B6: performs functions linked to the nervous system;
- Vitamin C: is one of those responsible for increasing immunity;
- Vitamin E: prevents cardiovascular disease;
- Vitamin K: helps in the construction and maintenance of blood vessels;
- Manganese: helps to regulate glucose;
- Iron: acts in the manufacture and transport of blood cells;
- Potassium: promotes the proper functioning of several systems (such as cardiovascular and nervous);
- Phosphorus: contributes to the protection of organs such as the bladder, liver and kidneys.
In addition to these, this fruit contains polyphenols, that is, molecules that help the immune system.
Considered an antioxidant food, it fights free radicals, which are molecules capable of causing cell aging and changes in deoxyribonucleic acids (DNA).
What are the health benefits of blueberry?
This fruit is rich in antioxidants and vitamins, so it has numerous benefits for cardiovascular, eye, immunological health. Blueberries also have properties that reduce stress and help you relax, ensuring well-being.
Learn about other health benefits of blueberry:
- Prevents inflammation;
- Helps in the healing process;
- Reduces bad cholesterol (LDL) and increases good cholesterol (HDL);
- Fights urinary infections;
- Protects against diseases such as colds and flu;
- Controls blood sugar levels;
- Prevents premature aging;
- Improves vision.
It is worth mentioning that the blueberry must be consumed frequently, in order for these benefits to be achieved.
What is the difference between blueberry and blueberry?
None. Blueberry and blueberry are the same fruit.
Blueberry (blue fruit) is the name of the fruit in English. This denomination is used in countries like the United States, Canada, England and Australia.
The Brazilian Agricultural Research Corporation (Embrapa) introduced blueberry in southern Brazil in 1983.
But the English word was difficult to write, pronounce and understand in Brazilian daily life.
“Blueberry” comes from the second name of the scientific name of the fruit: Vaccinium myrtillus. From Latin, the translation of this name is “ uva -do-monte”.
The fruit also has other popular names in Brazil, such as camarinha, fruit of the forest or blueberry.
In Portugal, blueberry is called Arando or Arandano.
Where to buy and prices
Blueberries can be purchased at markets, fruit and vegetable stores, health food stores, blueberry festivals and parties and even over the internet.
The price may vary according to the time of year and the region of the country. Factors such as product presentation (in natura or dehydrated, for example) can also change the values.
The kilo of fruit costs an average of R $ 30 (if it is national) and R $ 100 (if it is imported). The plant seedling can cost between R $ 8 and R $ 120.
How to plant?
Blueberry is a fruit that grows in medium-sized shrubs.
When it is still small, the seedling should be planted in a pot of at least 20 liters. The soil of this vessel must be sandy-clayey.
Only after approximately 8 months can these seedlings be planted in the sandy-clay soil.
Low temperatures in winter and mild temperatures in summer are ideal for cultivation.
The first harvest can be done after 2 years on the ground. The indicated period for the harvest is between December and January.
Blueberry has many benefits for physical and mental health. This fruit, also known as blueberry, can be consumed in many ways. The Healthy Minute brings other information about food . Check out our posts and have a healthier life.
