Berries are a great source of vitamins, minerals and phytonutrients. Phytonutrients are a group of antioxidants that protect our cells from the damaging effects of free radicals. In particular, all berries are a great source of vitamin C and phytonutrients called anthocyanins
Health Benefits of Blueberries
Of all the berries native to N.America, blueberries are the most powerful in terms of antioxidant power. Blackberries are a very close second, but blueberries take the lead with their rich anthocyanin content.
The famous heart health benefits of red wine are, in part, due to the high anthocyanin content of this alcoholic drink. Anthocyanins help protect the arteries from free radical damage which can cause them to slowly harden and develop into atherosclerosis – a condition that is a major risk factor for heart disease. If you want the heart health benefits of anthocyanins without the alcoholic effects of red wine, then making your self a glass of blueberry juice is a wonderful alternative to provide yourself with the health benefits of berries.
Health Benefits of Strawberries
Strawberries also contain anthocyanins (in less amounts than blueberries) and can therefore offer us some of the heart health benefits of anthocyanins. In addition to this, strawberries are a great source of another phytonutrient called ellagitannins. Ellagitannins have a considerable effect at protecting us from heart disease and also cancer. One study that studied the diets of 1,300 elderly people found that those who ate the most strawberries were 3 times less likely to die from cancer.
Health Benefits of Raspberries
Just like strawberries, raspberries are also a great source of ellagitannins and a fair source of anthocyanins. So not surprisingly, raspberries also deliver the same anti-cancer and anti-heart disease properties as strawberries. In fact, rapberries may be more beneficial – research in the Netherlands has shown that raspberries have 50% the antioxidant capacity of strawberries.
Health Benefits of Blackberries
Blueberries may top the chart for overall antioxidant power, but they take a second place to the blackberries when it comes to vitamin content. Blackberries contain noticeably more vitamin C and E than other berries, and are also a good source of vitamin A. These three vitamins are all an important part of an optimum immune system, protecting us from disease, viruses and bacteria.
Maximize Berry Nutrition by Juicing
Juicing is a great way to supply your self with an abundance of the health benefits of berries. It takes about 4-5 cups of berries to make one juice, therefore creating a potent antioxidant rich drink. Here is berry fruit juicer recipe that you can make at home.
