Celebrate Blueberry Month this July

Summer is here and it’s time to celebrate one of its most loved fruits. That’s right—blueberries! July is National Blueberry Month, and we want to help you reap the benefits of this incredible and versatile berry.

Key Takeaways:

• Find out how blueberries are rich in antioxidants and promote heart health, digestion, and many other wellness benefits.
• Learn why July is peak harvest time for blueberries, and summer is the best month for growing and consuming blueberries.
• Discover fun and healthy ways to incorporate blueberries into salads, smoothies, and cocktails.

Table of Contents:

1. The Benefits of Blueberries
2. Facts About Blueberries
3. Eating Blueberries
4. Incorporating Blueberries into Dishes

The Benefits of Blueberries

It’s amazing just how many health benefits this superfood contains. So, today, we’re sharing them with you.

• Antioxidant Rich. Blueberries are full of antioxidants that help promote a normal inflammatory response. Inflammation may lead to illnesses like autoimmune conditions, heart health issues, and blood sugar problems.
• Brain & Whole Body Function. Studies show regular blueberry consumption improves memory and cognition. This fruit contains vitamins A, C and E, selenium, copper, magnesium, and phosphorous to assist central nervous system functions. Also, the presence of manganese supports bone development.
• Digestion Assist. Blueberries are especially low in calories and are a low glycemic index food. These factors help keep the body regular, support weight loss, and help to maintain blood sugar levels.
• Heart Helpful. Regular consumption appears helpful in promoting heart health by lowering blood pressure and decreasing oxidized LDL cholesterol.
• Improves Skin Tone. High amounts of vitamin C in blueberries promote collagen formation and skincare elasticity.

Facts About Blueberries

Archaeological data shows blueberries existed 10,000 years ago. Native American Indians valued blueberries for medicinal use, as a source of food, and in cultural context long before the arrival of colonists. Here are some quick facts:

• A fruit species native to North America
• Successfully domesticated for commercial production in 1916
• American blueberries are grown in 35 states
• 10 states supply 98 percent of all commercial production
• 2015 U.S. blueberry production yielded 735 Million pounds
• 2015 annual per capita blueberry consumption: 50 ounces
• S. growing season begins in April and ends in September
• Winter blueberries come from South America: Chile, Argentina, Peru & Uruguay
• Blueberry bushes produce up to 20 years and are resistant to most pests and diseases
• National Blueberry Month was officially designated in 2003 

Eating Blueberries

It is fitting that we celebrate National Blueberry Month every July during peak harvest time when the climate is most desirable for growing this fruit. A serving or two of blueberries on a regular basis is safe and beneficial for most people due to their antioxidant and vitamin properties. The benefits blueberries contain can boost most people’s wellness regimens, plus they have a great flavor, require little preparation, and are perfect to eat when on the go or to incorporate into an array of dishes and drinks.

Organic, fresh blueberries are especially nutritious when eaten raw. It is also easy to throw in a few ounces of flour-dusted blueberries to liven up a muffin or pancake batter, drop a few into any drink, or combine into a favorite summer recipe.

Maybe you’re growing your own blueberries this summer or maybe you want to hit up your local farmer’s market to get the freshest blueberries you can find. However you enjoy grabbing your supply of this fruit, we have a few ideas for you on how to incorporate blueberries into your diet this summer.

Incorporating Blueberries into Dishes

There are so many fun and tasty dishes and recipes to try that include blueberries this summer. To add flavor, antioxidants, multiple health benefits, and of course that beautiful blue color, try adding blueberries to these:

• Fresh salads: Whether you’re making a salad with mixed greens and spinach that you want to add some sweetness to, or a fruit salad with granola and yogurt, blueberries are a versatile and delicious choice!

• Smoothies: Try adding blueberries to a mixed fruit smoothie or acai smoothie for added benefits and taste.

• Muffins: Thinking about baking some muffins this summer? Blueberry is the flavor choice!

• Fresh jam: Do you enjoy making your own homemade jams? There’s no better time for a blueberry jam than National Blueberry Month. Spread this delicious mixture onto toast or crackers, or maybe even use it as a filling in fresh breakfast oat bars or pies.

• Summer cocktails or mocktails: Nothing says summer like a refreshing and fizzy drink garnished with the fruit of the season. So, add a few blueberries to that little drink umbrella and drop it in your glass. Cheers to National Blueberry Month!

Blueberries are packed with health benefits, and we can’t wait for you to enjoy this delicious fruit all month long! What’s your favorite way to enjoy blueberries?