From South America’s açai to Asia’s goji, exotic berries have created a stir in the nutrition world because of their potential health benefits. But the humble blueberry is giving the exotics a run for their money.

Research supports this US native’s ability to support cardiovascular and nervous-system health, among other advantages.†The information provided is not an endorsement of any product, and is intended for educational purposes only. NaturesPlus does not provide medical advice and does not offer diagnosis of any conditions. Current research on this topic is not conclusive and further research may be needed in order to prove the benefits described. The conditions and symptoms described may be indicative of serious health problems, and therefore should be brought to the attention of a qualified healthcare practitioner. Blueberries also contain significant reserves of fiber, manganese and vitamins C and K.

All this positive press has helped make the blueberry second to only the strawberry in popularity among consumers. More blueberries are grown here commercially than anywhere else during the April-to-October growing season, supplemented by fruits grown in South America during the US winter months. Blueberries are also available canned, dried and frozen.

When buying fresh blueberries, look for a rich, deep color with a silvery sheen; they should be firm, plump and dry. Refrigerate them, in the original package or in a covered container, for up to 10 days. Don’t rinse blueberries until you’re ready to use them.

Extra berries can be frozen in resealable freezer bags for up to six months. Thawed blueberries can be stored in the fridge for no more than three days.

Old-fashioned blueberry recipes often call for considerable amounts of sugar. However, modern diners have learned to enjoy the berry’s rich sweet-tart flavor as is whether eaten fresh as a snack, as an addition to yogurt or oatmeal, with cheese or in smoothies. Blueberries also shine in light salads and wraps, as the basis of sauces for fish or meat, tossed with couscous, in cocktails—even as a topping for pizza.

When baking with blueberries, minimize streaking by folding them in gently at the end of the mix cycle. A batter with too much baking soda will turn them gray; use a little lemon juice to restore vibrant color.

Looking for a healthy pop of color and flavor in your favorite dishes? The all-American blueberry fills the bill nicely.

Blueberry Chicken Salad Wraps

3 tbsp plain Greek yogurt

2 tbsp mayonnaise

1/4 cup finely chopped celery

1/4 tsp salt

2 cups diced cooked chicken

3/4 cup fresh blueberries

6 whole-wheat tortillas (6”)

6 large lettuce leaves

Yields 12 servings

Source: reprinted with permission from the US Highbush Blueberry Council

†The information provided is not an endorsement of any product, and is intended for educational purposes only. NaturesPlus does not provide medical advice and does not offer diagnosis of any conditions. Current research on this topic is not conclusive and further research may be needed in order to prove the benefits described. The conditions and symptoms described may be indicative of serious health problems, and therefore should be brought to the attention of a qualified healthcare practitioner.The information provided is not an endorsement of any product, and is intended for educational purposes only. NaturesPlus does not provide medical advice and does not offer diagnosis of any conditions. Current research on this topic is not conclusive and further research may be needed in order to prove the benefits described.