Into the blue

BLUEBERRIES are definitely the ‘new black’ — it seems like every magazine and cookery article I’ve picked up in the past few weeks is extolling the virtues of this plump little berry.

In season from May to October, we’re told they are packed with vitamins C and E, manganese and dietary fibre and are low in calories and virtually fat-free.

Research shows them highly effective in destroying free radicals and they are credited with helping to strengthen eyesight. In addition, a substance called anthocyanin improves support structures in the entire vascular system and may help reduce cholesterol and protect against ovarian cancer. Blueberries also help prevent urinary tract infections.