Which Berry is Right for Me?

Fruit and vegetables are the healthiest things you can eat, they give you energy, help you detox, are low in calories and rich in nutrients. You name it – they have it, and they are super-delicious at the same time. Now, when it comes to berries, it seems like every day there is a new research published that states how the healthy properties of berries are numerous. But the question is: which berries are the absolute best? What if you like a certain kind, and another kind has more to offer? Fret no more, your berry guide is here.

This is a guest post by Ma. Mathews McGarry, a health and wellness writer. We hope that you find it enjoyable and informative.

Acai berries

Relatively recently discovered in the Amazonian rain forests of South America, these dark purple treasures grows on palm trees and have traditionally been used for healing and to give strength. Today, we know that they are packed with more than 15 amino acids, rich in antioxidants, and are rich in fatty acids, while all of this is making them great for boosting your immune system and lowering cholesterol levels. Moreover, they are great in slowing down the aging process and great for the heart.

Aronia

Originating from the eastern parts of the United States, in wet woods and swamps, aronia can today be found in Eastern Europe as well. Aronia berries are a bit bigger than common blueberries, and cannot be eaten raw (chokeberry is aronia’s common name), but they are widely used in making jams, syrups, juices, teas, and wines. In addition to being an amazing antioxidant, they can be grown as ornamental plants as well, since they are incredibly resilient to drought, insects and disease. They are commonly added to yoghurts, cereals, and cakes, but bread made with aronia berries is incredibly healthy as well.

Blueberries

The Holy Grail of antioxidans, blueberries do miracles for your body. They are rich in ingredients called phytonutrients which help with treating and preventing the damage free radicals cause in our cells. They help slow down the process of deterioration within the collagen matrix of tissues, thus helping you age more slowly. Blueberries are not only good with skin cells, but they are good for your blood too, and they lower the risk of varicose veins and heart disease, among other things. You can eat them fresh or frozen, simply add them to your smoothies, cakes, and cereals and enjoy their freshness.

Goji berries

Maybe you have heard about the other names of goji berries’: Chinese Wolfberry and Mede Berry, but it’s the same kind of berry with incredible traits. In China they have been used to improve a person’s sexual vitality and to give strength. Today, goji berries are grown in Nepal and Tibet, and recent studies show that they offer good protection against liver contaminants. Rich in amino acids, minerals, and vitamins B and E, while at the same time containing more beta carotene than carrots do.

Blackberries

Apart from being among the most powerful antioxidants, blackberries have been proven to have cancer-fighting compounds. They are high in vitamins C and E, as well as pectin fibre, folic acid, and ellagic acid. While pectin helps lower cholesterol levels, it also contains high levels of a soluble fiber known as pectin, a substance that studies link to lowered levels of cholesterol.

Berries are always listed in the ‘superfood’ group because of their anti-ageing, antioxidant, and nutritional properties, and no matter which you prefer, you will not make a mistake by choosing to have them in your diet. Experiment a bit, try out several kinds and pick the one you like the most, be it for the way it tastes or for the effect it has on your body.

At Beyond Vitality, we are here to educate, guide, motivate and inspire you into a new and exciting journey to vibrant health. Our programs focus on small and gradual changes towards long-term and sustainable health. See our range of consultations and programs.