The diminutive, yet all-powerful blueberry is a true work horse in terms of fortifying wellness and a new report gives us yet another reason to include them regularly in our diets – maintaining an abundance of healthy bacteria in our colons.

There has been a recent explosion of research highlighting that the types and amounts of bacteria living in the large intestine have a profound impact on all aspects of our health.  Specifically, having large quantities of good bacteria, also called probiotics in our guts and keeping the bad ones at bay means less gastrointestinal disease, better immunity, and a healthier metabolism.

Scientists from Lund University in Sweden found that the fiber in blueberries, especially when combined with a dose of good bacteria (think yogurt) reduced levels of inflammation-inducing bacteria and increased levels disease- protective bacteria in the large intestines.  This study is a good example of the “healthy synergy” food combinations can provide.  Blueberries and yogurt are delicious in tandem and that much better for you!

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