Berry Berry Good

 I love berries.  I love them for breakfast, lunch and dinner.  Every time I open the fridge, I pop a few raspberries into my mouth.  I can’t help but wonder if I was a black bear in a previous life because I’m convinced I could exist on berries alone.  The best thing about having a berry addiction is that they are actually one of the healthiest fruits you can eat.  The following are some great facts I dug up while trying to justify my berry obsession.

Berries are extremely rich in antioxidants which help protect the cells in our bodies from damage, and in so doing prevent disease and aging. Blueberries in particular contain more disease-fighting antioxidants than any other fruit or vegetable.

Blueberries, raspberries and especially strawberries are an excellent source of Vitamin C and soluble fiber. They also contain a powerful antioxidant called ellagic acid.

The powerful phytonutrients alone in blueberries and other berries would make these fruits among the best of healthy food choices. These antioxidants help prevent cancer and lower the risk of cardiovascular disease. They also help to preserve younger looking skin and can reduce skin sagging.

There is also a powerful connection between blueberries and memory. Research has shown that blueberries might help reverse the short term memory loss that often comes with aging. Blueberries are thought to be a key in preserving a healthy young brain.

And finally, another in the list of blueberry benefits, as well as strawberries and raspberries, is that they are low in carbohydrates relative to other fruits. This makes berries a great choice for diabetic recipes and for those following a low carb diet.

•  Fix yourself a delicious smoothie for breakfast or a snack and add in any of these berries (or try a mix of all three) either fresh or frozen.
• Toss berries into a salad.
• Sprinkle berries on yogurt or ice cream and enjoy the health benefits of blueberries, raspberries and strawberries while you are snacking.