
TOSHIAKI ONO/amanaimagesRF/amana images/Getty Images
Blueberries may help lower your risk for heart disease, according to a study published in "The Journal of Nutrition" in September 2010. This is most likely due to the high amounts of a type of antioxidant called polyphenols that they contain. Blueberries also provide a number of essential nutrients, including fiber, manganese and vitamins C and K.
Calories and Macronutrients
A 1-cup serving of raw blueberries has 84 calories, 0.5 gram of fat, 1.1 grams of protein and 21.4 grams of carbohydrates, including 3.6 grams of fiber. This is 14 percent of the daily value for fiber, based on a 2,000-calorie diet. Getting the recommended amount of fiber in your diet may help lower your risk for certain types of cancer, constipation, high cholesterol and heart disease.
Vitamins and Minerals
Each 1-cup serving of blueberries also provides 24 percent of the DV for vitamin C, 36 percent of the DV for vitamin K and 25 percent of the DV for manganese. You need vitamin K for blood clotting and to keep your bones strong. Both manganese and vitamin C aid in wound healing and also act as antioxidants to help protect your cells from damage by free radicals, which are highly reactive chemicals found in the body and environment that can harm cells.
Related Articles

The Carbohydrates in Blueberries

Vitamins for Mental Alertness

Nutrition Drinks for Diabetics

Can Age Spots Be Reversed?

What Foods Provide Calcium D-Glucarate?

How to Freeze Tzatziki

How to Store Apples

How to Cook Winter Root Vegetables in a ...

How Much Whole Grain Should You Eat a ...

How Much Fiber Is in Fresh Figs?

Avocado Serving Size & Nutrition

Fruits & Vegetables Rich in Potassium ...

Foods to Prevent Jaundice

What Are the Health Benefits of ...

How to Make Fresh Strawberry Frosting ...

Benefits of Shea Butter and Coconut Oil ...

Fiber in Soybeans

Foods From Rainforest Plants

Carbohydrates in Zucchini
The Nutrition of 15-Bean Soup
References
Writer Bio
Based in Massachusetts, Jessica Bruso has been writing since 2008. She holds a master of science degree in food policy and applied nutrition and a bachelor of arts degree in international relations, both from Tufts University.
Photo Credits
TOSHIAKI ONO/amanaimagesRF/amana images/Getty Images