Why are Berries Among the Healthiest Foods?

Berries are undoubtedly the most treasured gifts of nature to humanity. Not only do they nurture and nourish, but they also possess exceptional healing properties that could cure innumerable illnesses.

What are Berries?

Did you know that all berries are fruits, but not all fruits are berries? When we speak of berries, we usually think of strawberries and raspberries. But you'd be surprised to know that both of these fruits do not fit the definition of berries and are aggregate fruits as they grow from one flower having multiple ovaries.

A berry is an edible and brightly colored fruit that is fleshy and does not have a pit or stone, although several seeds may be present inside the fruit.

So, some other fruits like bananas, grapes, oranges, and kiwis also fall under the category of berries.

Health Benefits of Berries

Berries are known to have fantastic health benefits. Due to its advantages, it is believed to be a superfood that strengthens the immune system and prevents cancer.

Some of the uncountable health benefits are:

Rich in antioxidants

Berries are loaded with antioxidants that act to retain free radicals from causing oxidative stress. Antioxidants like ellagic acid, resveratrol, and anthocyanins protect DNA cells and minimize the risk of disorders and illnesses.

If you or your child struggle with sleep disorders or have issues not getting enough quality sleep due to stress, this fruit can be a savior.

You could also try other dietary supplements to help induce sleep, such as relaxing herbal teas like organic chamomile herbal tea from Traditional Medicinals and melatonin gummies specifically for kids from Gummies Garden

Improvement in insulin response

Berries assist in improving insulin and blood sugar levels. They defend your body's cells from elevated sugar levels and upsurge insulin sensitivity in obese and overweight people.

People with insulin resistance have recorded evidence of improved insulin levels after consuming a cup full of berries.

Berries have a high content of a fiber-containing digestive enzyme known as anthocyanins. This enzyme defends against spikes in blood sugar after the consumption of meals that are rich in starch.

High fiber content

Berries are a good source of soluble fiber, which slows down the food's locomotion through your digestive tract, which in turn depletes hunger and imparts a feeling of fullness.

This property is very favorable for people struggling to lose weight as they can easily monitor their calorie intake. Increased fiber intake has proven to reduce calorie absorption daily.

Also, the carbohydrate content is shallow, making them a low-carb food.

Packed with vitamins and minerals

Aside from being loaded with antioxidants and fiber, berries are packed with various essential vitamins and minerals. They give a boost of vitamin C.

A small cup of 150 gms provides 35% of the recommended daily dosage of vitamin C.

Besides, it has a high content of manganese, folate, Vitamin K1, and copper too.

Berries contain anti-inflammatory properties

Modern lifestyle has induced long-term and excessive inflammation caused by stress, immobility, and minimal physical activity, and unhealthy food options. This chronic inflammation contributes to diseases and illnesses.

Berries help fight chronic inflammation due to their potent anti-inflammatory properties. They possess chemicals such as polyphenol compounds that aid in regulating the immune system and reducing chronic inflammation.

Berries are good for your heart

Berries contribute to heart health by reducing the cholesterol levels of your body. Significantly people having metabolic syndrome benefit immensely from the consumption of berries.

Lowering cholesterol levels can aid in improving heart health and eliminating the risk of heart-related diseases.

Also, they reduce the oxidized LDL cholesterol levels in noticeable amounts when consumed daily.

There are many benefits of berries for skin

This miracle property of berries has made it very favorable. Not only does it provide many essential nutrients for your body, but it also helps prevent wrinkling, which could make you look younger for longer.

The antioxidants known as ellagic acid are extremely good for the skin and prevent skin damage.

Eating berries can help prevent cancer

Regular intake of berries has been found to protect the human body against various types of cancers.

The antioxidants responsible for this protection are anthocyanins and resveratrol. These enzymes help minimize the risk of mouth cancer, colon cancer, liver cancer, breast cancer, and cancer of the esophagus.

Maintain arteries' health

In addition to preventing cancer and reducing cholesterol, berries also improve the function of the arteries.

The endothelial cells lining your blood vessels aid in blood pressure control. These also protect the blood from clotting apart from performing other essential functions.

The antioxidants present in berries can prevent endothelial dysfunction that could cause heart diseases and artery health deterioration.

Unfortunately, berries aren't available throughout the year as they are seasonal, but they can be stored in frozen or dried forms.

Arterial function, along with all other benefits mentioned above, also improves in people who consume frozen, dried, or baked berries. However, consuming fresh berries always derives the best results and makes a great snack as well.

What kind of berries do you enjoy eating?