6 REASONS TO LOVE BERRIES

These little berries aren't just good for your taste buds though; they're good for your whole body. Here are 6 reasons to eat berries!

Reason #1: Blackberries are among the top ranked antioxidant-rich

fruits and also contain high levels of fiber, manganese, copper and

vitamin C with only 61 calories and 2 grams of protein per cup.

Blackberries are also a good source of vitamins A (as beta-carotene),

B5, C, E, K and folate. One cup of blackberries provides 4% RDA

(recommended daily value) of calcium and 7% RDA of zinc.

Reason #2: Blueberries are also high in manganese, dietary fiber

and vitamins B6, C and K. They have a low glycemic load which

makes them a good berry choice for those who wish to prevent blood

sugar spikes. Studies suggest that consuming blueberries (and

cranberries) may help alleviate cognitive decline associated with

Alzheimer's disease and other age-related conditions as well as the

prevention of urinary tract infections.

Reason #3: Raspberries are very high in antioxidants and also

contain high levels of fiber, manganese and vitamin C. Other

nutrients in raspberries include vitamins B1, 2 and 3, folic acid,

magnesium, copper and iron.

Raspberries have anti-inflammatory properties. Studies suggest that

eating raspberries may prevent certain cancers and protect against

cardiovascular disease, diabetes, allergies, age-related cognitive

decline and macular degeneration (age-related vision problems).

Reason #4: Cranberries are known for their powerful, disease-

fighting antioxidant properties. Eating cranberries on a regular basis

may promote cardiovascular health, boost the immune system and

protect against certain cancers. New research suggests that

cranberries may play a role in the prevention of kidney stones and

help prevent tooth decay.

Reason #5: The nutrients in strawberries help protect against

rheumatoid arthritis and have anti-cancer and anti-inflammatory

properties. Strawberries are also good for your eyes as they help

prevent age-related vision problems. Strawberries are high in vitamin

C, antioxidants and manganese. They are also good sources of

potassium, folate, riboflavin, vitamin B5, vitamin B6, vitamin K,

omega-3 fatty acid, magnesium and copper.

Reason #6: Acai berry is famous for its high antioxidant content. It

is also a low glycemic berry and provides much of the same health

benefits of all the other super berries mentioned above.  Acai is best

purchased as a frozen puree, rather than an extracted juice or

powder.