Any wild plant will possess more vigor than its farmed (or cultivated) counterpart. Wild blueberries, for example, develop more antioxidants and phytonutrients in order to survive compared to their cultivated counterparts. This resiliency or “anti-fragility” of these wild plants gets passed down to you when you eat the plant. This is a powerful example of the symbiosis of all living things.

Here are 3 reasons why you should be eating WILD blueberries everyday:

1. All blueberries are a rich source of antioxidants, notably the anti-aging and memory-boosting antioxidant called anthocyanin. Two recent studies reveal a diet rich in antioxidant-rich foods, such as blueberries, reduces the risk of Alzheimer’s. Wild blueberries provide 33% more anthocyanin content than regular (cultivated) blueberries.
2. Wild blueberries contain 2x the fiber than regular blueberries. In addition, they have less sugar than regular blueberries. With more fiber and less sugar than regular blueberries, they are the ideal fruit for keeping blood sugar stable.
3. Wild blueberries have been shown to have a positive effect on the gut microbiome by increasing beneficial bacteria. For example, research has shown that wild blueberries increase the population of Bifidobacteria more than two-fold.

Where do you find wild blueberries?

The frozen fruit section at your grocery store. I get mine at Trader Joe’s. If you can’t find them, opt for regular blueberries. ALL blueberries are healthy!

How much?

Aim for ½ cup daily.

Recipes and Ideas:

• Keep it simple- snack on blueberries and walnuts (my favorite snack combination). This is the ultimate brain food combo!
• Add to smoothies.
• Make-Ahead Blueberry Baked Oatmeal
• Blueberry Oatmeal Muffins

Resources:

Wilhelmina Kait, et al. “Recent Research on the Health Benefits of Blueberries and Their Anthocyanins”, Advances in Nutrition, Volume 11, Issue 2, March 2020, Pages 224-236.

Holland, Thomas M et al. “Dietary flavanols and risk of Alzheimer dementia.” Neurology vol. 94, 12 (2020): e1749-e1756

Riso, Patrizia, et al. “Effect of a wild blueberry (Vaccinium angustifolium) drink intervention on markers of oxidative stress, inflammation and endothelial function in humans with cardiovascular risk factors.” European journal of nutrition 52.3 (2013): 949-961.

Editor’s Note: The information in this article is intended for your educational use only. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health practitioners with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition and before undertaking any diet, supplement, fitness, or other health program.