Health

Hello Healthy Blueberries!

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Who doesn’t love the sweet goodness of a cute little blueberry?! So small, so round, so good. If you guys follow me on Instagram, then you already know I’m OBSESSED with fresh fruit. It’s seriously sweet, simply satisfying, and it has significantly LESS calories than packaged food. Blueberries (or more generally, all fresh fruits) are examples of God’s generous, nutritious and delicious gifts to us. Today I want to share some of my favorite health benefits of these seemingly humble little ‘baby blues’ as well as some of my favorite ways to enjoy them!

Did you know that blueberries are one of the most nutrient dense foods on the planet?? They’re loaded with antioxidants, Vitamin C, Vitamin K, Manganese, Copper and Fiber. Studies have shown that blueberries can help to improve memory and cognitive function, increase cardiovascular strength, protect the digestive system and help reduce damage to the muscles due to exercise. They also help fight against cancer and neurodegenerative diseases. 

On top of all that, blueberries have a very small impact on blood sugar. That means they help you avoid those spikes and drops that lead to overeating, crankiness, and lack of energy. A cup of blueberries has just over 80 calories, less than a gram of fat, and over 3 grams of fiber! Talk about a superfood! 

Okay, okay, now that you know how much I love my little ‘baby blues’ it’s time I share some of my fave ways to eat them.

BABY BLUES:

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On TOAST– Hello Nature’s jelly! Simple and satisfying. Bluebs on gluten free toast with nut butter is a match made in heaven! 

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On a SWEET POTATO– Before you call me crazy, try it. Just try a baked white sweet potato (they’re sweeter and “doughier” than regular sweet potatoes) with cinnamon, avocado slices (all mashed up and creamy!), some almond butter and a handful of sweet blueberries! SO good!! 

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On OATS– They add the perfect sweetness! Sometimes I buy fresh blueberries, pop them in the freezer and add them frozen to my oats. This cools down the oats and provides the perfect contrast of hot and cold!

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On FRENCH TOAST– Okay, I know this is technically toast, but something about FRENCH toast just feels so different. I simply dip a slice of gluten free bread in 1 egg white, cinnamon and almond milk and I fry it up. I top it with a drizzle of real maple syrup, PB2 and more fresh blueberries!

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Finally, my last fave way to eat blueberries?? FRESH! Nothing beats a hearty healthy handful on a hot day! How about you? Are you blueberry obsessed??

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11 Comments

  • Reply Amanda Howard

    I love blueberries and so does my 2 year old daughter. They are the BEST!

    July 27, 2016 at 8:54 pm
    • Reply Cailee

      Awww! What a healthy snack for your little girl! And yes! They’re so healthy and delicious!

      July 27, 2016 at 9:02 pm
  • Reply Liv @ Healthy Liv

    I love blueberries, too! My favorite way to eat them is probably on top of Greek yogurt or French toast, or just by themselves.

    And I always describe Japanese/white sweet potatoes as almost “doughy” but had never heard anyone else call them that, too! They’re soooo good…topped with cinnamon, they remind me of a cinnamon roll!

    July 27, 2016 at 11:58 pm
    • Reply Cailee

      YESSS!! I always say that they taste like a cinnamon bun… and one of my best friends is like, “NO, you haven’t had a cinnamon bun in years!” But I’m glad I’m not alone! Try adding some avocado! Live you’re gonna LOVE it!! <3

      August 1, 2016 at 3:12 pm
  • Reply Rach @ This Italian Family

    I love blueberries! Especially this time of year when they are so sweet. 🙂

    July 28, 2016 at 8:30 pm
    • Reply Cailee

      YES! I’m going to be SO sad when blueberry season is over! I love them SO much!!

      August 1, 2016 at 3:13 pm
  • Reply Kristy from Southern In Law

    Ohhhh how I love blueberries! I can’t wait until they come into season here and are cheaper so I can enjoy them by the bucketload 😉

    July 29, 2016 at 12:23 am
    • Reply Cailee

      Gotta load up girl! We bought tons and popped a bunch of pints in the freezer << most of which I've already eaten!! They're just SO good!

      August 1, 2016 at 3:14 pm
  • Reply Claire at My Pink & Green Life

    I love blueberries! I’m so sad it’s the end of the blueberry season here–but that gives an excuse to seriously load up on them right now 😛 I’ve never thought to put them on sweet potato before, though. That sounds seriously delicious!

    July 30, 2016 at 12:51 am
    • Reply Cailee

      You must try it Claire! I know it’s kinda strange, but trust me… DELICIOUS!! And IKR! I’m gonna be so sad when blueberry season is over!

      August 1, 2016 at 3:14 pm
  • Reply Kaylin@EnticingHealthyEating

    I would totally try blueberries on a baked sweet potato, that’s a brilliant idea. They are indeed a blessing, these sweet little berries!

    August 3, 2016 at 11:19 pm
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