New research from the Lund University Faculty of Engineering shows that blueberries are not only rich in antioxidants and vitamins, but can alleviate and protect against intestinal inflammations.

The Swedish study published in the Journal of Microbiology began as an attempt to see whether various types of dietary fiber and health-promoting bacteria-‘probiotic’ bacteria such as lactobacillus and bifidobacteria-could help alleviate/prevent the risk of stomach ailments such as ulcerative colitis and colorectal cancer.

Blueberries are rich in polyphenols, which have an antimicrobial and antioxidative effect. The combination of blueberries and probiotics reduced inflammation inducing bacteria in the intestine at the same time as the number of health promoting lactobacilli increased.

The study also noted that when blueberries were eaten with probiotics, the content of butyric acid and propionic acid increased in the blood. These two substances are known to be important energy sources for intestinal cells, but more recently recognized to favorably impact immune defense.

The most striking result, however, was that blueberries themselves had such a favorable effect, even more so then the other substances tested with them, like rye bran and oat bran. In combination with good probiotics, blueberries ruled the day!

New Jersey Nutritionist and Naturopathic Doctor – Robert Galarowicz ND – 201.618.3534 click on http://www.drrobertg.com/digestiveproblems/ to learn more about Digestive Health Services