The super food I want to discuss today is berries. Berries are the best overall fruit for your health. Not only are berries extremely tasty, they are also low in calories, low in sugar and high in fiber. Berries are loaded with antioxidants, cancer fighting phytochemicals, vitamins and minerals. They are best if eaten fresh and uncooked. It is extremely important to buy organic berries. Strawberries are listed on the Environmental Working Group’s dirty dozen list as one of the most highly contaminated fruits and vegetables. Other fruits and vegetables on this list include:
Peaches
Apples
Sweet Bell Peppers
Celery
Nectarines
Cherries
Pears
Grapes (imported)
Spinach
Lettuce
Potatoes
Studies have shown that berries benefit your health in many ways. Berries lower your risk of Parkinson’s disease, slow aging, fight cancer and the purple colored berries may prevent Alzheimer’s disease and multiple scleroses.
Blueberries have the highest amount of antioxidants, they protect against urinary tract infections, cancer, age related health conditions, brain damage from stokes and may reduce the build up of bad cholesterol. They contain vitamin A and C, zinc, potassium, iron, calcium and magnesium. They are high in fiber and low in calories. The perfect diet food!
Strawberries are second only to blueberries in antioxidant activity. They too are rich in dietary fiber. Strawberries contain a phytochemical that has been shown to fight carcinogens. They contain manganese, folic acid, potassium and more vitamin c than any other berry.
Raspberries contain cancer fighting phytochemicals, calcium, vitamins A, C, and E. and also folic acid.
Cranberries are known for their ability to treat urinary tract infections. Along with this ability cranberries also protect against cancer, stroke and heart disease. These berries are rich in polyphenols a potent antioxidant that may reduce the risk of gum disease and stomach ulcers. They may also inhibit the growth of human breast cancer cells and decrease the levels of bad cholesterol.
Avocados surprisingly are also a berry. These wonderful berries are rich in monounsaturated fat, which is a great source of energy and they contain twice as much potassium as a banana. Avocados also contain folate and are one of the best sources of vitamin E available. Research has also shown that they protect against liver damage. These great tasting berries also protect you from cancer, cataracts, macular degeneration and along with all of this they have been shown to lower cholesterol.
As you can see berries are definitely a super food. They are inexpensive, available year around, easy to prepare so add them to your daily meal plan and notice the difference in how you feel!
Jean Sumner has pursued an interest in wellness her entire life. An avid runner, she is passionate about exercise, eating healthy and maintaining a healthy lifestyle.Jean was diagnosed with cancer in May, 2009 this only served to fuel the flames of her passions and encouraged her to learn more about wellness. This diagnosis actually led to the beginning of World Wellness Education with a mission of “Teaching the world about wellness — one story at a time.”
As Jean pursued alternative methods of treating cancer she met countless individuals who had great stories to tell regarding how nutrition, spirituality and exercise helped them to overcome their various illnesses. Since these stories were moving, motivating and timely she thought that each of these stories may make a difference in others lives. With the knowledge that we learn from stories more quickly than other teaching methods an organization was born in hopes to make a difference in the well being of every individual on the planet.
This information is not meant to be medical advice. No action or inaction should be taken solely on the contents of this information. Instead, you should consult appropriate health professionals on any matter relating to your health and well-being.