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National Blueberry Month: Five Proven Health Benefits for Older Adults

National Blueberry Month: Five Proven Health Benefits for Older Adults

They may be small; however, blueberries are packed with nutritional benefits, especially for older adults. Blueberries are filled with antioxidants, are an excellent source of vitamin C and vitamin K, and contain dietary fiber and potassium. This sweet fruit seems to be essential for healthy aging. Here are five proven health benefits of blueberries for older adults.

Lowers Blood Pressure 

The majority of older adults (70 percent) are living with hypertension, or high blood pressure. High blood pressure increases the likelihood of stroke, heart disease, and memory problems, such as dementia. It can also lead to other serious health conditions. Blueberries can help to lower blood pressure because they contain the highest levels of anthocyanins. According to a recent study, anthocyanins improve cell function responsible for blood flow and blood pressure regulation. In the study, participants who consumed a cup of blueberries a day experienced better blood flow function and reduced their blood pressure over the course of a month. 

Improves Cholesterol Levels

High cholesterol is one factor that contributes to cardiovascular disease. Common cholesterol medications prescribed to older adults with high cholesterol can interact with other prescription medications older adults take to manage other chronic health conditions. An alternative way to lower cholesterol is to eat blueberries. Anthocyanins found in blueberries have also been found to lower cholesterol. It’s important that older adults talk with their doctor about their prescription medications and potential interactions. It’s also important that older adults get their cholesterol levels checked regularly. A heart-healthy diet that includes foods that fight high cholesterol, along with exercise, may be enough to lower cholesterol levels in older adults. 

Enhances Insulin Sensitivity 

Insulin sensitivity refers to how sensitive the body is to the effects of insulin. Low insulin sensitivity is associated with type 2 diabetes. In addition to losing excess fat and increasing physical activity, older adults can improve their insulin sensitivity by eating blueberries. Research confirms that the antioxidant properties found in blueberries improve insulin sensitivity. Improving insulin sensitivity also reduces the risk of many other chronic diseases, including type 2 diabetes. 

Reduces Risk for Cardiovascular Disease 

Newer studies are exploring the link between chronic inflammation and cardiovascular disease. It appears that chronic inflammation can trigger a heart attack or stroke. Although it’s not proven that inflammation causes cardiovascular disease, inflammation does promote the growth of plaques, loosens plaque in the arteries, and triggers blood clots. The combination of plaque and blood clots is often the primary cause of heart attacks or strokes. One way to reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease is to reduce inflammation in the body. Blueberries can help to minimize inflammation because they are an excellent source of antioxidants. Antioxidants help fight inflammation throughout the body. 

Boosts Cognitive Functioning 

Blueberries also seem to boost cognitive health among older adults. Based on a systematic review, blueberries may improve some measures of cognitive functioning. A small study found that older adults with early memory decline saw an improvement in memory function after 12 weeks of consuming blueberry juice. Further research is needed in regards to blueberries and reducing the risk of Alzheimer’s disease. However, blueberries may be a good component of a healthy diet for brain health. 

Another proven health benefit for older adults who require assistance at home is to seek the help provided by Visiting Angels South Elgin. From assistance with daily tasks to meaningful companionship, many older adults are benefitting from our exceptional home care services. Our professional caregivers can escort you to a local farmer’s market to pick up a pint of fresh blueberries, or they can help you prepare healthy meals or snacks that incorporate blueberries. We recognize that home care looks different to different clients. What always looks the same is our attention to detail and personalized care plans that cater to each client’s individual needs. If you are in need of assistance at home, please contact us today by calling 847-429-0100.

Serving Elgin and the surrounding NW IL Suburbs

Visiting Angels SOUTH ELGIN, IL
65 Woodbury St.
South Elgin, IL 60177
Phone: 847-429-0100

Serving Elgin and the surrounding NW IL Suburbs

Visiting Angels SOUTH ELGIN, IL
65 Woodbury St.
South Elgin, IL 60177
Phone: 847-429-0100