Antioxidants from blueberries may have a slimming effect, a
study suggests. Researchers at Texas Woman's University treated
mouse cells with either blueberry polyphenols (in three
different doses) or a control solution. The active compounds
blocked the growth of new fat cells and the buildup of lipids
inside cells, reducing total fat by up to 73 percent at the
highest dose. In theory, this cellular reaction would decrease
body weight, but the implications for humans aren't yet clear,
emphasizes Shiwani Moghe, who worked on the project as a
graduate student. Polyphenols from green tea, grape seeds,
oranges, and grapefruits have also been shown to inhibit fat
cells, so Moghe recommends eating a variety of antioxidant-rich
foods and supplements.