A berry beneficial food

Blueberries are the latest healthy food phenomenon_[1]. Recently there has been buzz about Acai_[2]. Before that it was red grapes and wine_[3]. Scientists now know that all berries provide benefits, which indicates that we should eat a variety of berries rather than just the fruit of the month.

The compounds that give berries their red, violet, purple and blue colors have potential anti-cancer and heart disease properties including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and cell regulatory effects._[4]. The actual compounds include: Anthocyanins, Catechins, Resveratrol, Tannins and Flavonoids, Polyphenola, Quercetin, Dietary Fiber, Ellagic Acid, ORAC (Oxygen Radical Absorbance Capacity), Phytochemicals, Rutin, Salicylic Acid and good old Vitamin C_[5].

Specific benefits include:

• Protection Against Night Blindness
• Protection Against Cancer
• Protection Against Heart Disease
• Protection Against Tract Infections
• Protection Against Memory Loss and Cognitive Decline
• Anti-Inflammatory Action
• Protect the Liver From Toxins
• Provide Vitamins, Minerals and Fiber
• Omega 3 Fatty Acids

It’s important to note that no one berry offers every benefit. That’s a good reminder that the FDA recommendation of 5 or more servings or fruits and vegetables is a good one. Other fruits like apples and citrus also provide complementary benefits.

And fruits aren’t the only source of some of these beneficial compounds. Other anti-oxidant rich foods include: chocolate, tea, and red wine, which also have been linked to lower heart disease risk.

References

• [1] How to use blueberries for health
• [2] Acai Provides Disease-Fighting Benefits
• [3] Health Research Looks to Grapes
• [4] Fact Sheets for Blackberries, Blueberries, Black Raspberries, Red Raspberries, and Strawberries
• [5] Potential health benefits of berries

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