Sunday, February 3, 2013

Blueberries and Cardiovascular Health

Dee Cee Labs Blueberry Extract

Researchers have known for a long time that a diet rich in flavonoids offers the body a number of health benefits, but new studies show that a specific class of flavonoids, anthocyanins, found in blueberries may be especially beneficial to the cardiovascular health of women.  It can be hard to find blueberries out of season, and it may also be difficult to consume a beneficial amount, but for this there is DC Labs Blueberry Extract.

Anthocyanins are flavonoids, and they are responsible for giving blueberries their dark blue pigment.  Anthocyanins are important for the brain, and they may help cognitive performance.  Studies have shown that anthocyanins may reduce age related memory loss and cognitive decline.  The Journal of Neuroscience states that brain aging can be noted by the loss of brain fat, and anthocyanins may slow down the loss of this fat.  Anthocyanins are especially beneficial to the cardiovascular system, because they provide it with antioxidants.  Once anthocyanins are consumed they are distributed to the cells that line the cardiovascular system to help fight free radicals.  Fat within the body and cardiovascular system can be broken down into compounds that are harmful to the cardiovascular system, but anthocyanins may help to reduce the occurrence. 

Researchers at the Harvard School of Public Health conducted an extensive and thorough study of anthocyanins, in which they tested 93,600 women between the ages of 25 and 42.  Over the span of 18 years the women filled out questionnaires on their food consumption and dietary habits.  During this time over 400 women experienced heart attacks, but those who regularly consumed blueberries or strawberries were 32 percent less likely to experience a heart attack.  Even women who consumed a healthy diet, but had few flavonoids, didn't show the significant reduction in heart attacks that those who had plenty of anthocyanins did. 

Blueberries are a great source of anthocyanins, which can have excellent benefits on the cardiovascular system.  Studies show that they are particularly beneficial for women, and Dee Cee Labs Blueberry Extract is a great way to supply yourself with the beneficial compounds found in blueberries.