Berries have many culinary, nutritional and medicinal benefits. Along with making great snacks and desserts, berries can aid in improving your health and helping you to lose weight. ArthritisToday.org reports that berries have an abundance of antioxidants, which protect your cells and organs from damage that can occur from inflammation and free radicals. Additionally, berries contain many essential vitamins and minerals, and they are an excellent source of fiber. Acai, goji, blueberries, strawberries, raspberries, blackberries, boysenberries and huckleberries are some berries that contain these exceptional advantages.
Acai Berries
Acai berries originate from Brazil, where they are known for their nutritional and medicinal benefits. Acai berries are usually consumed in capsules, powders and juices. EveryDiet.org reports that acai berries contain a greater amount of antioxidants than blueberries and red wine, the benefit of which is weight loss and a general feeling of well-being.
EveryDiet.org also reports that acai berries aid in digestion, detoxifying the body, enhancing your immune system, promoting a healthy heart, lowering blood pressure, increasing mental focus, boosting your eye health and slowing down the aging process. Many uses of the acai berry have not been scientifically proven and are considered holistic methods. Check with your doctor before treating any health issue with acai berries.
Goji Berries
Native to northwestern China, the goji berry is another superfood on the berry list. Goji berries may be eaten as berries, but they are also available in supplements and juices. TheDietChannel.com reports that the taste of the goji berry is "tangy sweet-and-sour cross between a cherry, cranberry and a raisin." Nutritional and medicinal benefits include an abundance in beta-carotene, ample amounts of vitamin C, iron, antioxidants, protein, amino acids, zinc, copper, calcium, selenium, phosphorus and B vitamins. TheDietChannel.com also reports that goji berries are beneficial to eyesight, the immune system, digestion, energy levels and circulation.
Blueberries
Blueberries also offer many nutritional and medicinal benefits, according to HealthProductReview.org. Blueberries are packed with antioxidants and fiber and their many attributes include improved blood flow, weight loss, detoxification, boosted metabolism and increased energy. Blueberries are available in supplement and juice form, but they are probably best when consumed as the fresh fruit. A handful of blueberries makes an excellent quick snack. They are tasty when baked into muffins and desserts and are a smart component of a fruit smoothie; simply combine blueberries, bananas, one cup of low-fat yogurt and one-half cup of orange juice in a blender and mix until smooth.
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