Superfoods: Berries and Cherries
The deep blue and purple color indicates the presence of a group of powerful antioxidants known as anthocyanins. The anthocyanin pigments of Bilberries (Vaccinium myrtillus) have long been used for improving vision and circulation. There is also evidence that certain anthocyanins have anti-inflammatory properties, and there are reports that anthocyanin-rich foods are beneficial for treating diabetes and ulcers.1
If that’s not enough reason to consume berries, recent research has identified significant anti-bacterial and anti-viral activity, as well as the ability (in old animals) to restore balance, coordination, learning and memory. 2 Overall, a cup of blueberries per day can provide significant antioxidant and flavonoid benefits that may improve memory, mood, and cognition. Sugar-free berry concentrate drinks are also available which provide convenient high-potency nutrition for daily use.
- Seeram, Navindra P. (2008). “Berry Fruits: Compositional Elements, Biochemical Activities, and the Impact of Their Intake on Human Health, Performance, and Disease”. Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry 56 (3): 627–9.
- Shukitt-Hale B, Galli RL, Meterko V, Carey A, Bielinski DF, McGhie T, Joseph JA. Dietary supplementation with fruit polyphenolics ameliorates age-related deficits in behavior and neuronal markers of inflammation and oxidative stress. Age (Dordr). 2005 Mar;27(1):49-57. doi:10.1007/s11357-005-4004-9.