The health benefits of blueberries have long been touted. They are flavor-filled and nutritious, while still being very low in calories. In fact, researchers at Tufts University analyzed 60 fruits and vegetables to find out more about their antioxidant powers. Blueberries ended up at the top of the heap, rating highest in their capacity to destroy free radicals.

Canadian researchers have now found that “biotransformed” blueberries with bacteria from the berry’s skin may help people fight obesity and diabetes.

In an animal study, diabetic and pre-diabetic mice saw a reduction in hyperglycemia (high blood sugar).

According to researchers at the University of Michigan, blueberries may help to fend off belly fat and reduce risk of diabetes. Blueberries high content of phytochemicals which are a kind of antioxidant are believed to play a significant role in whittling your middle.

Lab rats who were fed a blueberry-rich mixture had less abdominal fat, lower triglycerides, lower cholesterol, and improved fasting glucose and insulin sensitivity which are key measures of how well the body uses glucose for fuel, says researchers. Blueberries seem to affect the genes that are related to fat-burning and storage.