Seven Berries we must add in our daily diet for better health
Berries are one of the healthiest fruits we have. The wonder food is not only good for taste but also has many health benefits. In fact, it is found that berries are not only good in flavor but are also very essential for health.
Berries are one of the ingredients for shakes, smoothies, and desserts but their health benefits are not known to many of us. However, they are high in antioxidants and are extremely good for health.
Blueberries
Blueberries are a powerhouse of antioxidants. The deep blue color is because of the high amounts of phytonutrients. However, the phytonutrients help neutralize free radical damage to our cells. It is found that our tissues and cells deteriorate over the passage of time. Therefore, blueberries help in keeping such problems at bay.
Moreover, blueberries help reduce the chances of developing diseases such as the redness of cells. Hence, it includes a reduced risk of heart disease, varicose veins, hemorrhoids, glaucoma, cataracts, and peptic ulcers.
Bilberries
Bilberries are a blueberry look alike and also taste the same but are three times smaller in size. These berries are high in antioxidant anthocyanidins. Bilberries are good for diabetes patients, because of the presence of anthocyanidins. However, bilberries help in increasing night vision, protect the eyes, prevent cataracts, and aids macular degeneration.
Moreover, bilberries help in increasing blood flow in circulatory vessels. However, they are useful in treating circulatory problems such as varicose veins and hemorrhoids. Hence, bilberries are consumed in the form of a supplement.
Goji Berries
These berries are also known as the Chinese Wolfberry or Mede Berry. Goji Berries enhance sexual vitality, happiness, longevity, and physical strength. Tibet and Nepal grow this amazingly potent berry. However, the berry fights against negative health conditions and prevents liver contamination.
The deep red coloured berry contains 18 essential amino acids and vitamins B1, B2, B6 and E. Therefore, goji berries help fight cancer, enhance skin health, stabilize blood sugar and boost fertility.
Acai Berries
This berry boosts energy levels and is used for healing. It contains extremely high levels of anthocyanins just like the red wine. However, it lowers the risk of heart diseases and high levels of cholesterol. The berries slow down the aging process. The potent berry also protects against cancer and boosts immunity.
Hence, the amount of antioxidants in one acai berry is ten times that of grapes and two times that of blueberries.
Blackberries
Blackberries are rich in vitamins A and C. The dark colour of the berry proves that it contains a high level of antioxidants. The berries consist of an antioxidant known as Ellagic acid which helps prevent the growth of certain cancer cells. Blackberries are much more than just potent antioxidants. However, blackberries contain more than 85 percent of water and ample of fiber. Therefore, blackberries help in detoxifying the body and maintain the skin’s elasticity.
Moreover, the leaves of the berry contain tannins which carry astringent qualities and prevent the formation of blood clots. Therefore, blackberries are rich in potassium and help reduce insulin. Hence, consuming blackberries with one teaspoon of honey helps in controlling diabetes.
Cherries
Cherries consist of melatonin, which helps to regulate the sleep cycle. They also help in case of jet lag. However, cherries are rich in antioxidants which help fight free radicals, thus prevent aging. Therefore, cherries are a rich source of potassium, which helps in regulating the heart rate and blood pressure. Hence, it reduces the risk of hypertension.
Moreover, cherries help reduce joint and muscle pains as it contains high amounts of anthocyanins and bioflavonoids. Last but not the least, cherries enhance skin glow.
Strawberries
Strawberries are not very difficult to find as there are over 600 varieties of the fruit. They are high in antioxidant phytonutrients called phenols. Phenols protect us from diseases and promote good health.
However, according to studies strawberries also help in protecting the brain as it is a powerful antioxidant. In fact, strawberries reduce macular degeneration of the eyes and are a good source of potassium and vitamins B, C, and K.
Moreover, strawberries prevent birth defects as it consists of folic acid. Thus, it is good to consume strawberries during pregnancy. However, strawberries help in reducing inflammation as it is rich in antioxidant properties.