Longevity: Study says THIS fruit can increase your lifespan if enjoyed every day

New Delhi: Longevity is a term used to describe the number of years that one lives a healthy and disease-free life. And now, when living for 100 years and beyond has become a far-sighted dream for many, experts are fishing out ways to extend lifespan without the need for medication and have recently named a fruit that could contribute to this goal.

Blueberries, which people often enjoy as a mid-meal snack with a bowl of yogurt or oatmeal, are a rich source of fibre, vitamin C and antioxidants associated with a low risk of several diseases. And now, it is being linked to a longer and healthier life free from diseases. Read on to know how experts associate the popular berry with longevity.

How do blueberries contribute to longevity?

Blueberries are rich in polyphenols, a type of antioxidant that decreases inflammation, and fights oxidative stress and free radicals in the body to prevent acute and chronic conditions that may invade the body. The same berry also contains anthocyanins, an antioxidant that helps the body prevent type-2 diabetes, heart disease and even cognitive decline in the long run. The same component gives this fruit its deep blue colour.

Furthermore, blueberries help reduce the risk of low-density lipoproteins (LDL), that is, the bad cholesterol. Cholesterol is of two types – good and bad – and when the balance between these two is disturbed, the odds of struggling with heart disease increase significantly. It may result in the accumulation of plaque in the arteries and may cause a blockage to trigger a heart attack or stroke. Eating blueberries, according to a study published in The Journal of Nutrition, helped reduce LDL levels by 27 per cent in an eight-week period.

Additionally, blueberries are rich in vitamin C and fibre – the former helps strengthen the immune system while the latter induces satiety.

Disclaimer: Tips and suggestions mentioned in the article are for general information purposes only and should not be construed as professional medical advice. Always consult your doctor or a dietician before starting any fitness programme or making any changes to your diet.