The health benefits and uses of blackberries
1. Blackberries are known as some of the tastiest and healthiest berries in the world. These
have been consumed for over 2000 years and have some powerful health benefits for the
hum an body.
2. Blackberries are taken from bushes known as 'Rubus' in the Rosaceae family. These can
be consumed fresh, dried or steeped in hot water to make berry tea.
3. Many people eat blackberries to boost brain
health and help them to concentrate. They contain a very high amount of manganese which
strengthens the synapses in the brain. They can also protect your brain cells from degeneration
due to their high concentration of polyphenols.
4. Blackberries are ranked as one of the top 10 highest-antioxidant foods in the world
and are packed full of Vitamin C and other healing compounds. These antioxidants help
the body to fight off diseases and illnesses, and boost the immune system to prevent infection.
5. Dark berries like blackberries, strawberries,
raspberries and blueberries contain special pigments called anthocyanins. These give the
berries their dark red or blue colour and have been shown to help fight cancer cells.
Anthocyanins in blackberries also help to lower the risk of cancer with age by protecting
the body from oxidative stress.
6. The anthocyanins in blackberrries also have some anti-aging benefits, especially
for the skin. Eating a small handful each day can promote glowing, healthy skin and
reduce skin problems like acne or dermatitis. The Vitamin C also promotes collagen production
in the skin and prevents it from drying out.
7. The leaves of the blackberry bush can also be steeped in hot water to make blackberry
leaf tea. This is used as a natural remedy for diarrhea and to help regulate menstrual
periods in women. It can also be used as a gargle for throat inflammation or as a healing
compress for wounds and rashes.
8. As we get older, dangerous free radicals can cause damage to the body. If left unchecked
they lead to faster aging and a higher risk of cancer, eye disorders, diabetes and many
more illnesses. The phytochemicals found in raspberries destroy free radicals from the
body, helping you to stay healthy.
9. It is important to note that all fruit should be eaten in moderation, as it does
contain sugar which can have negative effects if eaten in high amounts. The good news however,
is that blackberries are some of the lowest sugar fruits on the planet and have a high
amount of fibre which helps the body to process the sugar.
10. If you are diabetic or suffer with insulin
resistance then blackberries can help. Stop consuming grains and refined sugars and replace
these foods with healthy berries. These help the cells to accept sugar and reduce the risk
of blood sugar spikes.
11. Blackberries contain lots of Vitamin K which helps to regulate the hormones in both
women and men. This is excellent for reducing cramping pains in the stomach. The manganese
and calcium also helps to reduce PMS.
12. Another excellent benefit of blackberries is their ability to strengthen the heart and
prevent the risk of heart disease. The Vitamin K helps to prevent hardening of the arteries
and promote better blood flow to the heart. It reduces inflammation in the blood vessels
which also aids in balancing blood pressure.
13. Those who have problems with the eyes such as dryness, macular degeneration, or
vision issues should get more antioxidants into the diet. Healthy berries are loaded
with antioxidants that protect the eye from becoming more damaged with age.
14. Many people add blackberries to healthy
morning smoothies. The cells are open and ready to receive nutrition after sleeping,
so this is a great way to boost your health. Blackberry smoothies help you to wake up,
feel energised and vibrant without the need for stimulants like coffee.
15. Avoid blackberry jams and preserves as
much as possible, as these have too much added sugar. This sugar has a negative effect on
the body which actually causes inflammation.
16. Historically blackberries where used to treat bowel problems for over 2000 years.
The high fibre and phytonutrients heal the digestive tract and allow for better digestion.
17. Fruits and vegetables rich in Vitamin
C help to reduce uric acid crystals for those who suffer with gout. We highly recommend
drinking lemon water with a few fresh blackberries to soothe gout pain.
18. Those who suffer with arthritis and autoimmune
diseases like celiac disease or ulcerative colitis should definitely get more berries
into the diet. They are packed full of anti-inflammatory compounds which help to modulate the immune
system.
19. Blackberries or blackberry powder is sometimes used in baking delicious desserts. These are
for indulgence only and should not be overdone.
20. To make a healthy drink, simply drop a few mixed berries into a bottle of water and
refrigerate overnight. This creates a berry infused water which you can sweeten with stevia.
This adds more minerals and nutrients to the water, making for a delicious and healthy
hydrating drink.
To learn more about anti-inflammatory foods that heal the body at the cellular level,
please see our anti-inflammatory playlist at the end of today's video.
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