Nutrition Beast: 7 Benefits of Berries and Antioxidants

Recently, I’ve been making a conscious effort to increase my antioxidants naturally through the foods I’m eating. Of all fruits berries are among the highest in antioxidants. Lately, I’m loving berries and I’m seeing a noticeable difference in my energy levels.

Benefits of Berries

  1. Berries contain polyphenolics which assist in the cleanup of toxins in damaged cells.
  2. Berries contain high levels of phytochemicals which protect cells from damage.
  3. Berries have a high fiber content which can provide a sense of fullness and is beneficial for weight loss.
  4. Berries contain anthocyanins a chemical compound which is known for crossing the blood barrier and can prevent loss of cognitive function and mental decline.
  5. Berries can contribute to the prevention of Parkinson’s disease.
  6. Berries have been shown to reduce the risk of heart disease, even in higher risk patients.
  7. Eating berries around exercise times can prevent inflammation in an athlete’s body and reduce the amount of (DOM’s), delayed onset muscle soreness syndrome.

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Give your body a powerful blast of antioxidants with my top Beastly picks below:

  • Blueberries
  • Blackberries
  • Cranberries
  • Raspberries
  • Strawberries

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Try It

  • 1 cup cooked oatmeal, stir in 1 scoop protein powder, top with ½ cup berries.
  • 1 cup dry oats, 1 scoop protein powder, ½ cup berries, water, blend.
  • 1 cup cooked oatmeal, topped with fresh berries and a side of egg whites.
  • Top your yogurt or salad with fresh berries.
  • Mix berries and nuts.
  • Top tapioca pudding with 1 cup fresh berries.
Beastly Recipe Notes
  • Oats have smaller amounts of antioxidants, but small doses over time have big benefits.
  • For protein shakes, replace ice cubes with frozen fruit.
Beastly Tips
  1. Fresh is best, but frozen is acceptable.
  2. Select berries that are organic and free of pesticides.
  3. Always rewash berries, even if the label says, ‘prewashed.’

Check back later this week for my energizing Berry Blast Smoothie. For a list of berries from A-Z click here.

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