•Blueberries
Blueberries are a widely distributed and widespread group of perennial flowering plants with blue or purple berries. They are classified in the section Cyanococcus within the genus Vaccinium. Vaccinium also includes cranberries, bilberries, huckleberries and Madeira blueberries. Commercial blueberries—both wild (lowbush) and cultivated (highbush)—are all native to North America. The highbush varieties were introduced into Europe during the 1930s.
•Species
Blueberries are usually prostrate shrubs that can vary in size from 10 centimeters (4 inches) to 4 meters (13 feet) in height. In commercial production of blueberries, the species with small, pea-size berries growing on low-level bushes are known as "lowbush blueberries" (synonymous with "wild"), while the species with larger berries growing on taller, cultivated bushes are known as "highbush blueberries".
•Nutrients
Blueberries consist of 14% carbohydrates, 0.7% protein, 0.3% fat and 84% water (table). They contain only negligible amounts of micronutrients, with moderate levels (relative to respective Daily Values) (DV) of the essential dietary mineral manganese, vitamin C, vitamin K and dietary fiber (table). Generally, nutrient contents of blueberries are a low percentage of the DV (table). A 100 gram serving provides a relatively low caloric value of 57 kcal with a glycemic load of 6.
• Food
Blueberries are used in desserts such as jellies, jams, ice cream and pies, and they are also baked in muffins. It is an ingredient in many desserts and delicacies. Many scones are flavored with artificial blueberries, and in fact do not contain real blueberries. Blueberry jam is a jam composed of blueberries, sugar, water and pectin.
Blueberries are rich in anthocyanins, anthocyanins have the effect of activating the retina, which can strengthen vision and prevent eye fatigue. It is also one of the top five healthy fruits recommended by the World Food and Agriculture Organization.
Regular consumption of blueberry products can also significantly enhance vision and eliminate eye fatigue. Medical clinical reports also show that anthocyanins in blueberries can promote the regeneration of rhodopsin in retinal cells, prevent myopia and improve vision. And rich in vitamin A, vitamin E, carotenoids, potassium and zinc.
