The Benefits of Berries

Berries are not only a delicious treat; they are jam packed with numerous health benefits. CelebrateNational Berry Month this July by adding two servings to your day! There are a wide variety to choose from; blueberries, strawberries, cranberries, Gojiberries, raspberries, oh my!

Berries are a summer essential. They are refreshing and can be enjoyed in many different ways. Smoothies, in a salad, raw, or baked into delicious desserts. Whichever way you choose to incorporate these nutrient packed fruits into your day is up to you!

 5 Benefits of Berries

1. Full of antioxidants: Berries are a great source of antioxidants, such as anthocyanins, ellagic acid, and resveratrol. In addition to protecting your cells, these plant compounds may reduce disease risk. Blueberries, blackberries, and raspberries contain the highest amount of antioxidants.
2. High in fiber: Berries are a good source of fiber, including soluble fiber. Fiber helps to keep you full and aids in digestion. Fiber can help maintain blood sugar levels, help lower cholesterol, and maintain good bowel health.
3. Packed with nutrients:Berries are packed with vitamins and nutrients. Berries contain large amounts of vitamin C, vitamin K, vitamin A, and manganese to help keep you healthy.
4. Heart Healthy: Blackberries and strawberries have been shown to reduce LDL cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of heart disease. Berries help fight inflammation and reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease.
5. Brain Health: Berries are full of antioxidants that help protect the brain from age-related memory loss. Antioxidants protect cells from harmful damage and free-radicals that can cause Alzheimer’s disease. Increasing your berry intake can help prevent inflammation and damage to the brain that contributes to these diseases.

Here’s one of my favorite smoothie recipes below. Give it a try and let me know how you like it!

Very Berry Smoothie:

• 1 cup of strawberries
• 1 cup of blueberries
• ½ cup of leafy greens (spinach, kale, etc.)
• 1 cup of liquid of choice (water, milk, almond milk)
• Add Ice and blend – now time to enoy!

There are a variety of berries to choose from, so don’t be afraid to explore one’s you typically do not eat. These power-packed fruits are bursting with delicious flavor and are a great addition to any part of your day! Experimenting with berries can be fun, don’t be afraid to try out new recipes or simply eat them raw.

So many berries making it too hard to decide which way to eat them? Don’t worry you can experiment all month long with different types and recipes to celebrateNational Berry Month!

Your turn to action: What is your favorite type of berry and ways you enjoy eating them? Let me know in the comments below.

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