Here’s Why Berries Are Superfoods

We all know that berries like blueberries, blackberries and blackcurrants are great sources of antioxidants and so can help repair oxidative stress to our cells that’s caused by free radicals. But you might not know just how powerful and beneficial they are for so many other things. Read on to find out how these small but mighty superfoods can benefit you.

All berries for gut health

There’s so much advice on how to keep your gut healthy but a good place to start is with a handful of seasonal berries in your everyday diet. Berries are prebiotic-rich foods, which help feed the probiotics in the gut, enabling them to keep the microbiome balanced and healthy. A healthy gut environment is essential for everything from maintaining cognitive function to strengthening the immune system.

Blueberries for muscle repair

Blueberries are particularly high in antioxidant compounds which are highly anti-inflammatory. That means they’re a great choice for a post-workout snack as they help your muscles recover from the micro tears that occur when you exercise.

Strawberries for healthy eyes

While all berries contain plenty of vitamin C, strawberries are especially high in it and so are an excellent fruit to eat to help prevent macular degeneration. Vitamin C helps protect the eyes from oxidative stress, which can lead to a number of eye problems including cataracts and glaucoma. Strawberries also contain carotenoids, which are essential for eye health. Carotenoids are found in the retinas and help to filter out harmful blue light and protect the eyes from damage.

Blackcurrants for fat loss

According to a study conducted at the University of Chichester, participants who consumed 600mg blackcurrant extract, which is rich in antioxidants called polyphenols and anthocyanins, showed that fat oxidation rate increased from 11% to 17% between weeks one and two of the trial. Experts believe the increase is due to anthocyanins’ ability to suppress certain receptors that regulate the metabolism of carbohydrates, proteins and lipids.