Berries are an incredible source of disease fighting and health promoting antioxidants. Antioxidants, phytochemicals and flavonoids are found in both the skin and seeds of berries. The bright color, plump appearance and sweet taste make berries an ideal snack any time of the day
Strawberries Promote Healthy Celluar Activity
Strawberries are a bright red, heart-shaped fruit that are covered in seeds. In fact, they are the only fruit that has seeds on the outside rather than the inside. This sweet flavored fruit is a major source of a particular phytonutrient known as phenol which protects the cell structures of the body and help to prevent the detrimental effects of free radicals.
Strawberries are an excellent source of vitamin A, vitamin C, folic acid, beta carotene, potassium, phosphorus, calcium and magnesium. One cup of strawberries contains 45 calories, 3.4 grams of dietary fiber and 0.6 grams of fat.
Raspberries are an Excellent Source of Antioxidants
Raspberries are a member of the rose family and contain approximately 50% more antioxidant activity than that of the strawberry. These bright red, dark red, yellow, black or purple berries contain ellagic acid, which protects the integrity of cell membranes while preventing the body’s organs against damaging free radicals. In addition to ellagic acid, raspberries are also an excellent source of other phytonutrients and flavonoids including quercetin, kaempferol and anthocyanins.
Raspberries provide the body with vitamin A, vitamin C, folic acid, riboflavin, niacin, potassium, phosphorus, calcium, magnesium and manganese. One cup of raspberries contains 60 calories, 8.4 grams of dietary fiber and 0.7 grams of fat.
Blueberries Promote Healthy Vision
Blueberries are plump round berries belonging to the heath family of shrubs and plants. They vary in color and can be blue, maroon or purple depending on the type of blueberry.
The main antioxidant found in blueberries is called anthocyanidins and has demonstrated the ability to help prevent the onset of cataracts, glaucoma, peptic ulcers and heart disease. Blueberries also aid in the prevention of varicose veins and hemorrhoids as well as help to promote a healthy urinary tract.
These small berries are a rich source of vitamin C, vitamin B, vitamin A, vitamin E, copper, selenium, zinc and iron. One cup of blueberries contains 81 calories, 3.9 grams of dietary fiber and 0.6 grams of fat.
Blackberries Support a Healthy Digestive Tract
Blackberries are a dark shade of purple and are considered to be an extremely rich source of health promoting and healing antioxidants. It is the dark pigment of the berry itself that provides the body with numerous health benefits.
Blackberries contain a wealth of ellagic acid, anthocyanocides and anthocyanins which protect the body’s cells against cell damage caused by free radicals. Blackberries are also considered to be a digestive remedy and a natural treatment for stomach cramps and diarrhea.
Blackberries are an excellent source of vitamin A, vitamin C, folic acid, potassium calcium, phosphorous and magnesium. One cup of blackberries contain 74 calories 7.6 grams of dietary fiber and 0.6 grams of fat.
Antioxidant and vitamin rich berries will help protect against inflammation, high blood pressure and high LDL cholesterol levels. Including regular daily servings of berries in one’s diet is an excellent way to reduce the risk of cellular damage, illness and disease.
Sources:
WHfoods.com (2010) (accessed May 3, 2010)
NutritionData.com (2010) (accessed May 3, 2010)
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