The Blueberry bush is a flowering shrub that produces small berries, known as blueberries or bilberries in Europe. The berries start off green and deepen to blue / purple as they ripen.
There are several types of blueberries, with the most common being Highbush berries (cultivated predominantly in the US) and Lowbush or ‘Wild’ blueberries. The latter tend to be smaller in size and richer in antioxidants.
Here at Mountainlife, we wild harvest our blueberries from Siberia. Thanks to the stressful weather conditions, the wild blueberry bushes develop more phytochemicals to protect themselves, and in turn, produce more raw, natural and nutritious berries
The wild blueberry is one of the most nutrient-dense berries on the planet. Despite only containing around 80 calories, it is jam packed with antioxidants, fibres, manganese, carbs and vitamins A, C, E and K. A true superfood!
Wild blueberries are also a fantastic source of dietary fibre, polyphenolics and anthocyanins and chlorogenic acid.
Polyphenolics - Strong plant-based micronutrients, packed full of antioxidants.
Anthocyanins - Plant-based compounds that play an important role in protecting the human body. They also have anti-inflammatory and microbial powers.
Chlorogenic Acid - This acid helps to maintain healthy blood sugar levels and prevent insulin spikes, by reducing the carbohydrate absorption rate in the digestive tract. It can also help to reduce fat metabolism and potentially lower cholesterol.
Blueberries are native to America and were originally known as ‘Star Berries.’ Native Americans believed the Great Spirit sent blueberries from the stars to feed them and keep them healthy.
North American indigenous people used dried blueberries in stews and to add flavour to meat. Juice from the berries was used as a cough medicine and the leaves and roots were ground into a power to treat urinary tract infections and poor appetite.
Considered the ‘king of antioxidants,’ blueberries have one of the highest antioxidant levels of all common fruits and vegetables. These antioxidants (predominantly flavonoids) play an important role in preventing inflammation, protecting the brain and warding off degenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s. Research also proves the antioxidants in blueberries help to prevent damage to human DNA, slow down signs of ageing and reduce the risk of chronic diseases, like cancer.
The antioxidants in blueberries have the potential to delay mental ageing up to 2.5 years. Several studies have found that they also benefit ageing neurons and increase cell signalling.
Blueberries are rich in 2 key antioxidants, vitamin C and anthocyanin. Both help to promote collagen production in the body - the protein that gives skin its structure and youthful plumpness.
Studies have found the antioxidants in blueberries can help to reduce inflammation and speed up muscle repair after workouts. Add wild blueberry powder to your post-workout smoothies to reap the benefits.
We recommend taking 1-2 tbsp of Mountainlife Wild Blueberry Powder daily. Re-hydrate it with water to create a fruity tea or add it to smoothies, yoghurt, porridge and cereal.
Blueberry powder also makes a healthy and tasty addition to baking recipes like muffins and flapjacks.
Our Wild Blueberry Powder is made from 100% natural blueberries, wild harvested from the forests of Siberia. Once harvested, the berries are carefully ground down and freeze-dried to lock in the goodness and preserve their vibrant colour. Enjoy this superfood as part of a healthy, balanced diet and benefit from the powerful antioxidants inside.
Supercharge your body with Mountainlife Wild Blueberry Powder today!