The brilliant purple that makes blackberries so beautiful is a signal of their high levels of anthocyanins, natural compounds that support memory function and anti-aging while guarding against cancer.
With more than half of the daily-recommended dosage of Vitamin C, the berries are fantastic for cardiovascular function, the immune system, and skin health. They have 6 grams of fiber to optimize digestion and are rich in anti-carcinogenic antioxidants called phenolic acids.
Eat blackberries fresh or frozen in everything from jam to wine! They are delicious when added to smoothies, and in pies, cobblers, and other desserts. Blackberries are in season from the end of the summer into the beginning of fall.
Blueberries are equally packed with antioxidants and are especially good for brain health, enhancing memory and increasing learning capacity in older individuals. The berries could reduce cognitive decline and actually fight the devastating effects of Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s.
One cup contains 24% of the daily-recommended dose of Vitamin C and 14% of the suggested fiber intake for an adult. Studies indicate that eating a cup of blueberries per week will speed up the metabolism and lower blood pressure, again due to the presence of anthocyanins.
Blueberries lower blood sugar and fight depression. They are thought to inhibit the growth of breast cancer cells, to reduce the risk of coronary disease, and to lower LDL cholesterol.
The best season for fresh blueberries is May to October. Get as creative as you like with them in your recipes, but don’t forget about just washing them and enjoying the berries a handful at a time.
Strawberries are rich in Vitamin C that actively repairs and builds the tissues while boosting immunity. Vitamin C improves eye health and even decreases the formation of wrinkles. The berries have also been linked to lower cholesterol levels.
A single cup of strawberries satisfies the daily Vitamin C requirement for men and women. They are high in manganese and have a good amount of fiber. At just 49 calories a serving, strawberries are wonderfully diet friendly, but be certain you don’t have a strawberry allergy before digging in.
The best season for strawberries is April in Texas and Florida, May in the Deep South, and June in the Northern states.
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