Wild about blueberries

Antioxidants are complex organic chemicals found in many fruits and vegetables that minimise the destructive potential of free radicals. Free radicals in excess can damage living cells, possibly triggering malignant changes in the cells and causing ageing. Antioxidants offer protection from heart or arterial disease and other degenerative problems of ageing. Some studies suggest they can delay the onset of cataracts  or macular degeneration of the eye. One of the most exciting studies indicates that a diet rich in antioxidants may reverse the short term memory loss that comes with ageing. 

Where do you get blueberries?

Wild blueberries are available in supermarkets in a variety of products from yoghurt to fruit jams to drinks. But you get the biggest helpings in packets of dried wild blueberries. Dried and frozen packs are stocked in a number of supermarkets. Health food shops stock dried packets and spreads.

Why wild rather than cultivated?

Cultivated blueberries have less antioxidant power than those grown in the wild, so buying the wild means maximum power to boost your daily healthy eating list of five fruits and vegetables. Remember, too, when selecting produce that the brighter the colour of the fruit or vegetable – the reds, the purples, orange -- the higher the content of the antioxidant.  

How do you use them in cooking?

·        Toss them into cereals and salads

·        Add them to pancakes, waffles and muffins

·        Make a wild blue shake, smoothie or juice drink - see below

·        Use as a sauce over ice cream, yoghurt and puddings

·        Or as a sauce with chicken and duck

·        Spread  on your morning toast

Recipe for a Wild Blueberry Smoothie 

6 oz (180g) wild frozen blueberries

6 oz (180g) yoghurt (vanilla or blueberry)

1 tablespoon honey (if plain yoghurt is used)

½ cup ice ( 3 ice cubes)

Blend well at high speed. Serve immediately. Serves 2.

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