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Anthocyanins: Powerful Blue AntioxidantAnthocyanins (pronounced ann-tho-sigh-ann-ins) are powerful antioxidants found in the pigment that gives blueberries their beautiful blue color. This phytochemical pigment is one in the group of bioflavonoids that help to protect the berries from oxidation. Research shows that this oxidation fighting power is extremely beneficial for humans as well. In humans, free radicals cause the oxidation and aging of cells and tissues. These free radicals cause damage and even death of important parts of the body.
The benefits of this antioxidant are numerous. Some of these benefits include neutralizing the free radical damage to the cells and tissues that can cause cataracts, glaucoma, varicose veins, hemorrhoids, peptic ulcers, heart disease and cancer. Research has shown that these magical pigments can stop free radical damage and prevent damage to cells and tissues in both fat-soluble and water-soluble environments.Another benefit of this antioxidant is that it helps your body by enhancing the effects of vitamin C. It also has shown to improve blood vessel integrity and helps the circulatory system. Current research is looking at the ability of this antioxidant to prevent damage to cartilage which protects your joints and prevents arthritis. This particular bioflavoniod has even more antioxidant power than the other antioxidant vitamins. In fact, they are estimated to have fifty times the antioxidant activity of both vitamin C and vitamin E. Recent research has shown that this antioxidant as well as flavanol found in blueberries help to improve memory and learning. More research is being done to study an increasing number of benefits from this powerful antioxidant. Subscribe to Blueberry NewsReturn from Anthocyanins to Antioxidants Page
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