Wild blueberries are rich in nutritional content. It has potassium, fiber, vitamins A, C, & K. When eaten in the right amount and as part of your diet, these will give many benefits. However, it may also cause several side effects.
1. Increase the Risk of Bleeding
Blueberries contain Vitamin K. This is important in doing several functions of the body. It includes regulating blood clotting and maintaining bone strength. Too much of this vitamin is harmful to the body. It may cause symptoms like skin rashes, a high risk of internal bleeding and bruising, and difficulty swallowing. It can also cause difficulty in breathing that might lead to fainting.
Those who take blood thinners should be mindful of eating this fruit. They need to maintain the amount of vitamin K in their blood. Eating blueberries may cause a sudden increase or decrease in this vitamin. And it might lead to bleeding. You can consult your doctor first if you want to enjoy this fruit. They may change the amount of your blood thinner.
Moreover, it is better to avoid this fruit if you are going through surgery. It can interfere with blood sugar control during and after the operation. Therefore, avoid eating it at least two weeks before your schedule.
2. Drop in Blood Sugar Levels
Wild blueberries can help manage symptoms of diabetes. It releases sugar slowly into the blood. However, taking dried blueberry leaves can cause a harmful drop in your sugar levels. Call your doctor first if you wish to take something that contains these. Monitor your blood sugar regularly and look out for signs. These may include blurred vision, sudden mood chance, headache, hunger, pale skin, sweating, shaking, difficulty in thinking, and fainting.
3. Teeth Staining
Blueberry boasts a bright blue color. Hence, it is because of its pigment. However, this may discolor your teeth. The color will tint your tooth’s white filling. It doesn’t matter if you eat fresh, juiced, frozen, or dried blueberries. It can still stain them. Also, there are effective ways to prevent it. Be sure to drink water after eating. You may drink milk afterward. Milk will balance the acidity of the fruit. It can also strengthen your teeth. You can also eat hard cheese after eating blueberries.
4. Gut Problems
Blueberries contain a lot of fibers. These are important for gut health. However, too much of it may cause negative results. Therefore, it may cause stomach pain, bloating, too much farting, and diarrhea. Too much of this fruit may also prevent the absorption of nutrients in your organs. Remember to eat the recommended amount only. If you have existing digestive problems, you are likely to experience the symptoms.
5. Allergic Reactions
This blue fruit can cause allergic reactions, especially if you have a stone fruit allergy. Stone fruits include apricots, cherries, plums, peaches, and nectarines. You may be sensitive to blueberry if you experience reactions to these fruits.
6. Maybe Unsafe to Pregnant Women
Moreover, it is generally safe for pregnant women to eat blueberries. In fact, it can provide many health benefits to both the mother and the baby. The food you eat will have a major impact on your pregnancy and the baby’s growth. However, remember to ask your doctor first about your recommended dose.
Important Note
There are a lot of choices on how one can include this fruit into your diet. You can add it to your cereals/oatmeal during breakfast. Blueberries can also be a smoothie. Also, it is a perfect quick snack. This fruit can provide exciting flavor and texture when added to salads. Also, you can also bake them in your desserts. For something savory, add them to your soups and side dishes. If you are feeling unsure about blueberries’ benefits and side effects, contact your doctor. They are well-equipped to address your questions and concerns. They can also recommend a management plan to fit your needs if you experience side effects.
Blueberries’ benefits and side effects will differ from person to person. Always remember to keep everything in moderation. You should at least get 1 ½ to 2 cups of fruit each day. You may include blueberries in this to meet the recommendation.