Berry Boosters: For Natural Healing

Of all the so-called superfoods — the nutrient-rich foods high in antioxidants that are thought to fight the ills of aging — few receive more accolades than the berry family. From humble blueberries to their exotic cousins from distant climes, berries have muscled out other super fruits to take a firm stand front and center. Sure, orange fruits and dark leafy greens get their fair shake, but the berries seem to steal the show.

And the attention bestowed on berries is not unfounded. In study after study, the benefits of berries are lauded. Most recently, researchers revealed that women who ate more than three servings of blueberries or strawberries a week had a 34 percent lower heart attack risk than those who ate less. Researchers say the reason is that the berries, like other red and blue fruits and vegetables, have high concentrations of anthocyanin, an antioxidant that may help lower blood pressure and improve blood vessel function. Another study found that women who eat plenty of blueberries and strawberries experience slower mental decline with age than women who consume fewer of the fruits.

And what about all the other berries that are regularly slapped with the “miracle” label by food marketers and importers? Although many of the exuberant health claims have yet to be confirmed, the bulk of berries are loaded with important nutrients that can go far in combating common deficiencies that may be making you feel less than peppy. With that in mind, here’s the who’s who of the super berry world.