August 2003
When is the last time you tasted the little blue summertime fruit known as the blueberry? Blueberries are rich in vitamins and minerals such as C and E, beta carotene, folic acid, iron, fiber and potassium. Plus, they are naturally free of fat, cholesterol and sodium. A serving of blueberries (1/2 cup) counts as one fruit serving, is only 80 calories, and makes an easy, nutrient-packed snack perfect to pop into your mouth during a summertime hike or even at the pool! As an outdoor adventurer, especially during the summer months, focus on the month of July as the prime season for blueberry picking…think local, as in farmer’s markets, blueberry bushes in the wild, and getting a group of friends together to go blueberry picking as an outdoor activity. Sure, you can find blueberries in the grocery store year around, but don’t miss out on the fun of picking fresh blueberries for the fruit smoothie recipe provided. The taste will make all the difference in the world! Think of it as the Power of Blue in your diet!
1. Start with a wake-up and add ˝ cup of blueberries to your morning cereal
2. At lunch add blueberries to your salad for a fresh and unique taste or stir them into a container of yogurt
3. Anytime, eat them with milk or soy milk
So use your imagination to get your “dose of blue”, adding to the goal of the summer to eat a colorful variety of fruits and vegetables.