Daily Blueberry Intake Keeps Cancer at Bay

BIRMINGHAM, Ala.Adding as little as one cup of raw blueberries to a daily diet may help prevent cell damage linked to cancer, according to a new study conducted by researchers at the University of Alabama at Birmingham.

The findings suggest the antioxidants, flavonoids and other vitamins in blueberries may help prevent the free radical damage associated with cancer. Blueberries also are rich in vitamin C, which helps the immune system and can help the body to absorb iron. Vitamin C also helps to keep blood vessels firm, offering protection from bruising.

According to the researchers, blueberry juice and other products may be nutritious but often contain less fiber than the whole fruit, and added sugar or corn syrup may decrease their nutritional value. Consuming fresh, raw blueberries provides the most benefits; the average serving size of raw blueberries is one cup, which contains about 80 calories.

Previous studies also have found blueberries may help reduce the proliferation of breast cancer cells and reduce the risk of colon cancer.