Democrat & Chronicle: Living Columns:
"Berries — wild or cultivated blueberries, cranberries, blackberries, raspberries and strawberries — are six of the top 20 foods richest in antioxidants (disease fighting nutrients) according to nutrition scientists at the U.S. Department of Agriculture.
Berries are rich in highly active phytochemicals, plant-derived compounds that have a beneficial effect on the body. They have long been known for their health-promoting and disease-fighting properties. Ancient Romans used them medicinally to treat melancholy, fainting, throat infections and diseases of the blood, liver and spleen. Today, research has shown berries may reduce the prevalence of gastrointestinal, skin and prostate cancer. Regular consumption may even help prevent urinary tract infections by preventing bacteria from adhering to the walls of the urinary tract. Berries may also prevent a drop in the brain chemical dopamine. Low dopamine causes memory and attention loss as well as a drop in problem-solving skills.
Berries are nutrient-rich. They have only 50 to 80 calories per cup and are high in vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin E, folic acid, potassium, iron, calcium, zinc, magnesium, calcium and selenium. They are fat-free and fiber-rich.
To receive the health benefits associated with berries, aim for up to two cups per day. "
"Berries — wild or cultivated blueberries, cranberries, blackberries, raspberries and strawberries — are six of the top 20 foods richest in antioxidants (disease fighting nutrients) according to nutrition scientists at the U.S. Department of Agriculture.
Berries are rich in highly active phytochemicals, plant-derived compounds that have a beneficial effect on the body. They have long been known for their health-promoting and disease-fighting properties. Ancient Romans used them medicinally to treat melancholy, fainting, throat infections and diseases of the blood, liver and spleen. Today, research has shown berries may reduce the prevalence of gastrointestinal, skin and prostate cancer. Regular consumption may even help prevent urinary tract infections by preventing bacteria from adhering to the walls of the urinary tract. Berries may also prevent a drop in the brain chemical dopamine. Low dopamine causes memory and attention loss as well as a drop in problem-solving skills.
Berries are nutrient-rich. They have only 50 to 80 calories per cup and are high in vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin E, folic acid, potassium, iron, calcium, zinc, magnesium, calcium and selenium. They are fat-free and fiber-rich.
To receive the health benefits associated with berries, aim for up to two cups per day. "
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