Top 5 Healthy Foods series third article – Benefits of Berries. Check back for future posts to read more about my top 5 healthy foods.
Berries are super foods loaded with fiber which helps you feel full longer. Berries top the chart in antioxidant power, reduce inflammation and slow down the oxidation process that causes disease and rapid aging.
By incorporating berries into your diet you may reduce the risk of cancer, obesity, heart disease, diabetes and osteoporosis as well as many other diseases. Most berries are tasty, naturally sweet and contain several nutrients.
Some of the total-body benefits from eating 1/2 to 1 cup of mixed berries each day includes; increased levels of good HDL cholesterol, lowered blood pressure, fiber for healthy digestive system, increased bone density and cancer-fighting antioxidants.
Top 4 Healthiest Berries:
Blueberries are one of the richest sources of antioxidants which help keep our bodies healthy and our cell structure young. Resveratrol found in blueberries has been reported as anti-aging, anti-cancer, anti-inflammatory, boosts eye health, lowers blood-sugar and improves cardiovascular. They are also a good source of vitamin C and vitamin E.
Strawberries contain vitamin C and phytonutrients along with folic acid, potassium, vitamin B5, vitamin B6, copper, magnesium and omega-3 fatty acids. They serve as potent antioxidants which help protect the cells and prevent oxygen damage in the body’s organ systems. Strawberries have shown to reduce inflammation in rheumatoid arthritis and protect against macular degeneration.
Cranberries help prevent urinary tract infections, help maintain heart health and are an important cancer-fighting antioxidant. Tannins found in cranberries may help to inhibit the adhesion of bacteria in the stomach, which can reduce GI diseases including peptic ulcers and gastric cancer.
Raspberries are rich in vitamin C, folate, iron, potassium and provide high amounts of insoluble fiber thanks to those little seeds. They contain soluble fiber pectin which helps control cholesterol levels. This fruit is packed with manganese a trace mineral to help keep your metabolic rate high, which in turn burns fat.
There are many more berries than what is listed here. My favorite ones are strawberries and blueberries. Which ones are your favorite berries??
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Cheers to a Healthy Day!
Lou Ann Donovan
I’m a Midwest gal who began on a journey to live a healthier life way back when I was in college. Now just like all of you, the twists and turns of my life have led me to where I am today. Passionate about healthy living, community and social media, I invite you to Live Young with me!
