We all love our berries, especially strawberries, cranberries and raspberries. Not only do they taste amazing, but also have a lot of interesting health benefits. Berries can be used to make your breakfast appealing, tasty and healthier; they also make a good ingredient in salads and are a great healthy snack. Here is a list of the popular berries along with health benefits:
- STRAWBERRY
Strawberries are rich in antioxidants that help neutralize heavy metals in the body and also detoxes. In addition, they also have many other nutrients, vitamins and minerals that contribute to our overall health. Strawberries also are rich in potassium, vitamin C, magnesium and dietary fibre that keeps metabolism running smooth.
They are great with chocolates, cream, on ice cream, or used in pies, tarts, jams, and sauces. Amazing beauty tips using strawberry
- BLUEBERRY
Blueberries are rich in vitamin C and B6. They also are a great source of fibre, potassium, poly nutrients etc. Regular consumption of blueberries lowers the risk of heart disease since it helps lower the total amount of cholesterol in the blood.
Freeze fresh whole cranberries to use as ice cubes in cocktails or even just sparkling water or iced tea.
- RASPBERRY
Raspberries are rich in vitamins, anti-oxidants, dietary fibre and what not. Raspberries have a high concentration of a phenolic compound called ellagic acid. This compound helps prevent cancer by stopping the growth of cancer cells.
Always keep a bag of frozen raspberries on hand for adding to smoothies and oatmeal
- CRANBERRY
Cranberry is a well-known berry that has great benefits for vaginal problems. It also helps prevent cervical cancer and maintains a healthy vaginal pH. Many of the poly nutrients in cranberries have antioxidant, anti-cancer and anti-inflammatory effects. It is also a god source of vitamin K, copper, vitamin C, manganese etc.
Blend fresh cranberries with plain Greek yogurt and freeze into popsicle molds.
- GOJI BERRY
Goji berries are loaded with beta-carotene that promotes healthy eyes, skin and hair. Regular consumption of goji berries increases body’s immune system and helps build resistance against invading organisms. This superfod is also rich in thiamin, riboflavin, lutein, lycopene, zeaxanthin, polysaccharides, betaine, and peptidoglycans. Add them in your yogurt or salad in the same
Add them in your yogurt or salad in the same way you would use raisins.
- ACAI BERRY
Acai berries are extremely high in anthocyanin which is a plant antioxidant that helps lower cholesterol levels in the body. Regular consumption of this berry helps promote weight loss, help in digestion, reduces irritation etc.
- BLACKBERRY
Blackberries are rich in bioflavonoids, vitamin C and contain many beneficial compounds. Blackberries are low in sodium and contain only 63 calories per cup! Blackberries are one of those fruits that are very rich in antioxidants.
- GOOSEBERRY
Gooseberry has the power to boost your metabolic rate and speed up digestion. Since it increases the absorption of protein, it in turn catalyses the metabolism rate. It is rich in vitamin c which is a potent antioxidant. It protects the body against free radicals and protects you from infections and diseases. Regular consumption keeps hair, skin and health in top condition.Because of their intense flavor they are best in jams, pies and other highly sweetened dishes.
Because of their intense flavor they are best in jams, pies and other sweetened dishes. More: Gooseberry benefits.
- ELDERBERRY
Elderberries are packed with dietary fibre that can help eliminate constipation, reduce excess gas, and generally increase the health of your gastrointestinal system. Elderberries are a rich source of vitamins A and C, which are crucial in helping the body maintain optimal health. Plus, the bioflavonoids in elderberry boost the body’s immune system by increasing antioxidant levels and viruses that damage cell walls.
Elderberry flowers are used for making tea, syrup and other beverages, but can be consumed in salads, fried etc. More: Elderberry benefits.
- BILBERRY
They are three times smaller than the blue berry, but similar in appearance and flavor, bilberries are extremely high in antioxidant anthocyanidins Bilberries are known for helping diabetes, they are useful in treating conditions related to circulatory problems such as varicose veins and hemorrhoids. Bilberry fruit contains high concentrations of tannins, that act as both an anti-inflammatory and an astringent.