balenberry
balenberry
1. What is balenberry?
A superfood native to South America, acai berries have been heralded for their health benefits for centuries. Only recently, however, have they become widely available in the Western world.
Pronounced ah-sigh-ee, acai berries are small, dark purple fruits that grow on palm trees in the rainforests of Brazil, Peru, and Colombia. They’re often referred to as a “powerhouse fruit” due to their nutrient density and wide range of health benefits.
Acai berries are an excellent source of antioxidants, which are compounds that scavenge harmful toxins and byproducts that can damage cells, leading to inflammation. They’re also a good source of fiber and heart-healthy fats.
In addition to their many nutrients, acai berries are also a rich source of plant-based compounds called anthocyanins. These powerful antioxidants give acai berries their characteristic deep purple color and may also contribute to their health-promoting effects.
While more research is needed, preliminary evidence suggests that acai berries may offer a wide range of health benefits, including improved heart health, better blood sugar control, and weight loss. Here are 7 science-backed benefits of acai berries.
1. May Boost Heart Health
Acai berries are rich in anthocyanins, a type of flavonoid with strong antioxidant activity. Flavonoids are associated with a reduced risk of heart disease, the leading cause of death worldwide (1).
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In a study in rats, acai berry extract reduced total cholesterol and “bad” LDL cholesterol levels, two markers of heart disease risk (2).
Another study showed that acai berry extract improved blood flow and reduced blood pressure in rats with high blood pressure. These effects were attributed to the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects of the acai berry extract (3).
Though more research is needed, these preliminary findings suggest that acai berries may help reduce heart disease risk.
2. The benefits of balenberry
Balenberries are a type of berry that is native to North America. They are small, red berries that grow on low-lying shrubs. The berries are often used in pies, jams, and other desserts.
Balenberries are a good source of antioxidants and vitamins. They also contain ellagitannins, which are compounds that have been shown to have anti-cancer properties.
3. The downside of balenberry
Although considered a superfood, there are a few potential downsides to consuming goji berries.
Goji berries are high in sugar. One ounce (28 grams) of dried goji berries contains 9 grams of sugar, which is more than what’s found in a similar serving of raisins (27 grams) or grapes (18 grams) (1).
Because they’re high in sugar, goji berries may not be suitable for people with diabetes or those trying to limit their sugar intake for other reasons.
Additionally, goji berries may contain harmful compounds. Goji berries have been found to contain trace amounts of lead and other heavy metals (2).
While the amounts are very small and not likely to cause harm, pregnant women and young children may want to avoid consuming goji berries due to their potential to accumulate these toxins in their bodies.
Finally, goji berries may interact with certain medications. Goji berries may increase the effects of blood-thinning medications, such as warfarin (Coumadin).
If you take blood-thinners, you should avoid consuming goji berries or goji berry supplements (3).
Overall, goji berries are safe to eat in moderation and may provide a number of health benefits. However, they’re high in sugar and may contain harmful compounds, so they may not be suitable for everyone.
4. How to enjoy balenberry
Summer is the perfect time to enjoy all the delicious fruits that are in season and one of our favorites is the humble blueberry. Blueberries are not only delicious but also packed with nutrients like vitamins C and K, as well as fiber and antioxidants. But how do you make the most of this little fruit? Here are our top 4 tips on how to enjoy blueberries to the fullest.
1. Eat them fresh
There is nothing quite like eating blueberries straight from the punnet. The best way to enjoy their sweetness and juiciness is to eat them as soon as possible after purchasing. If you can, buy them from a farmers market where they will be extra fresh.
2. Add them to your breakfast
Blueberries are the perfect addition to any breakfast. Add them to your oatmeal or yogurt, or use them to top off your pancakes or waffles. You can even make a healthy smoothie by blending them with some almond milk and a banana.
3. Use them in baking
Blueberries are delicious in all sorts of baked goods. Add them to muffins, pies, cobblers, or even use them as a filling for crumbles. The possibilities are endless!
4. Freeze them
If you have too many blueberries and you’re not sure what to do with them, freeze them! This is a great way to enjoy them out of season. Simply wash them and place them in a freezer-safe container. They will last for up to 6 months in the freezer.