Ah, berries—nature’s ultimate superfood that’s both yummy and compact, perfect for travel and adventure. From antioxidant powerhouses to anti-aging treasures, find below our top six picks for berries that are berry good for you. (Sorry, we had to.)
Blueberries
Photo Courtesy of tunedbody.com
The blueberry’s deep blue color is related to high amounts of phytonutrients called anthocyanidins that serve as antioxidents by neutralizing free radical damage in our cells. Listed first for a reason, blueberries also house about four grams of fiber per cup, bone-building vitamin K, and are packed with manganese, an energy boosting mineral. Whether sprinkled into salads or baked pastries, research indicates that adding the blue gem to your diet can improve motor skills and help ward off diseases like cancer, heart disease, and diabetes.
Cranberries
Photo Courtesy of tunedbody.com
Don’t just wait till Thanksgiving to have these babies. Cranberries are infection-fighting treats, helping fight off urinary tract infections through a group of flavonoids called proanthocyanidins. Research also suggests that they help keep the heart healthy, so be sure to mix some into your next smoothie.
Acai Berries
Photo Courtesy of tamboracai.com
Found in the Amazon forest, acai berries are deep purple and small, and work as anti-aging machines. Like red wine, acai berries are loaded with anthocyanins, a substance related with heart health and lowered levels of cholesterol. They’re also closely associated to slowing the process of aging and preventing diseases related to cellular oxidative damage. According to Global Healing Center, one acai berry carries 10 times the number of antioxidant vitamins as grapes, and two times the amount of blueberries.
Strawberries
Photo Courtesy of whisknyc.com
With over 600 varieties of strawberries on the planet, you’ll be more than likely to find one wherever you are—no excuses. The sweet dessert is high in antioxidant phytonutrients known as phenols, which help protect the brain. They also reduce macular degeneration of the eyes, and are an outstanding source of potassium, fiber, many B vitamins, vitamin C, vitamin K, manganese, iodine, folate, omega-3 fatty acids, magnesium, and copper—whew!
Goldenberries
Photo Courtesy of bokulovelife.com
As a superfood for both energy and managing weight, goldenberries are high in vitamin B, protein, and fiber. When combined, these substances help keep you feeling full longer and regulate your metabolism, while also providing strong antioxidants and anti-inflammatory kicks. Hailing from South America, the dried fruit is not as popular as others, but nonetheless, is just as healthy.
Goji Berries
Photo Courtesy of bestherbalhealth.com
Often referred to as Chinese Wolfberry or Mede Berry, goji berries come from Tibet and Nepal are often associated with happiness, longevity, and overall physical strength. They are also closely linked to protecting the liver from unwanted contaminates. The bright red variety is composed of 18 essential amino acids, 21 trace minerals, vitamins B1, B2, B6, and E, linoleic acid, selenium, germanium, and beta-carotene—a full house, indeed.
