Antioxidants - Bilberries

Proven to be a great source of antioxidants, bilberries help to prevent cancer and heart disease by increasing the level of flavonoids you currently have in your body.

These flavonoids are commonly found in a variety of fruits and vegetables and promote optimal health. The particular antioxidants found in bilberries will help with the ability to inhibit aggregation of blood platelets, increase the relaxation of the vascular smooth muscles, and potentially aid with the symptoms commonly seen with chronic inflammatory diseases such as atherosclerosis, pulmonary emphysema, and rheumatoid arthritis. Some lab results have also shown that it can help to inhibit the enzyme that is responsible for the degradation of collagen tissue.

Furthermore, including bilberries in your diet on a regular basis can also help to prevent macular degeneration of the eyes. This means that regular consumption will increase the ability to see at night and even enhance issues with diabetic retinopathy.

It is important, however, to try and consume this fruit in it's raw form to optimize the amount of antioxidant power it has. Heating or destroying it can destroy the antioxidants and render them useless to the body.

In addition to providing you with antioxidant support, this fruit also offers vitamin C, fiber, and is relatively low in calories. It makes for the perfect snack option for the dieting individual.