July is National Blueberry Month: Here's Where to Pick Your Own This Summer!

LongIsland.com

Celebrate July with red, white and blue (berries)!

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Fresh blueberries are called Nature’s little blue dynamos. Blueberries are proof that, when it comes to health benefits, good things really do come in small packages. Especially in small, blue ones!  They are considered a "superfood" because of the extreme benefits they provide. Blueberries have just 80 calories per cup, and scientific studies show that they have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, that can play an important role in helping to lessen the inflammatory process associated with chronic conditions like cardiovascular disease, cancer, and age-related cognitive decline. Blueberries are high in Vitamin C, which promotes a healthy immune system, and manganese, which plays an important role in bone development. They’re also a good source of dietary fiber, which contributes to heart health, helping to keep cholesterol in check.

Blueberries provide that perfect shade of blue for your edible rainbow.  Blueberries are used in juices, pies, jams and jellies, cakes, muffins, salads, or can be eaten alone. Blueberries are a delicious and healthy snack for both children and adults.

Highbush blueberries are the kind that grow on Long Island. There's nothing better than sweet, fresh blueberries picked right from the patch. Check out these local farms:

 

Have a great recipe for blueberry pie or another blueberry treat? Be sure to share it with us, and we may feature it in an upcoming recipe guide!