Blueberries have a number of health benefits, with their high level of antioxidant pigments being among the most important. According to research, antioxidant pigments can potentially help reduce the risk of developing a number of different types of cancers. In fact, research that took place at Prince Edward Island demonstrated that the tannins in blueberries are capable of lowering the level of a protein associated with the development of cancer cells.

In addition to its cancer preventing characteristics, the International Conference on Longevity determined that eating blueberries can help prevent the development of Alzheimer's Disease and other conditions that are typically associated with aging. Some studies have also shown that eating blueberries helps to reduce cholesterol levels and total lipid levels, both of which helps to decrease your chances of developing heart disease.

Although the best way to consume blueberries is fresh and raw, you can still enjoy the benefits of blueberries when cooked. Before using blueberries in your favorite foods, however, it is essential to wash them thoroughly. The pesticides that could potentially be on blueberries can have some adverse health effects, but washing the blueberries helps to remove this risk.

Perhaps the most common way to prepare blueberries is in blueberry pie. Cooking the blueberries does remove some of its fiber content, which aids the digestive system, and does cause them to lose some of their nutritional value. In addition, the sugar added to the pie is not healthy.

Blueberries can also be used in james, jellies, and muffins. For a low-calorie and healthy treat that will still satisfy your sweet tooth and allow you to reap the full benefits of blueberries, however, simply wash of the blueberries and eat them with a dallop of whip cream on top. Or, through some blueberries into some plain yogurt or mix with other fruit for a tasty fruit salad.