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.
