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Are berries the healthiest foods on earth?
The sweet taste of juicy berries is such a refreshing summer treat. Remember picking berries as a youngster? One berry for the mouth, one for the bucket. It’s like finding candy from God! Introducing children to the fact that the food that nourishes us comes from the earth is so special. U-Pick farms are a fun outing. Wild berries are free for the pickin’ (watch out for the poison ivy). Also beware of areas that are sprayed. Berries are like little sponges so organic berries are the best option.
Strawberries are the first to ripen in June. Then July brings on raspberries and blackberries with blueberries extending into August. All these berries are loaded with nutrients like vitamin C, B vitamins, manganese and potassium to name a few. The deep, rich colors indicate that they provide antioxidants which protect our cells. The combination of low calorie, low sugar content, and fiber makes berries a sweet treat that we can enjoy daily.
These delicious fruits have multiple health benefits. Consider these 11 reasons from the online article at healthline.com:
11 Reasons Why Berries Are Among the Healthiest Foods on Earth
1. Loaded with antioxidants
2. May help improve blood sugar and insulin response
3. High in fiber
4. Provide many nutrients
5. Help to fight inflammation
6. May help lower cholesterol levels
7. May be good for your skin
8. May help protect against cancer
9. Can be enjoyed on nearly all types of diets
10. May help keep your arteries healthy
11. Delicious alone or in healthy recipes
With this impressive list of benefits, I recommend making a habit of enjoying each variety of berries fresh in its season. If you have more than you can eat, freeze them to use later. A simple bowl of ripe berries is delicious and needs no added sugar. However, they can easily be enhanced to elegant dessert status by topping with organic whipped cream. Or for a non-dairy option, try whipping canned coconut cream. Place the can in the refrigerator for several hours first. Then, scoop out the solid portion only and whip. You may add a couple drops of vanilla and a little bit of stevia or monk fruit if desired.
My favorite healthy ways to use berries:
• Stir into organic yogurt.
• Blend in a smoothie.
• Top chia pudding.
• Add to a green salad.
• Dip strawberries in dark chocolate.
For additional sweetness, choose local raw honey and real maple syrup. It is best to avoid processed/refined sugar whenever possible.
For the healthiest foods on earth, pick berries!
Jeanna Anglin is a health coach residing in Putnam County who supports individuals and small groups in making lifestyle changes to improve their health. Jeannaanglin.com.