Stay Healthy with a Bunch of Berries and Glass of Red Wine

Berries are packed full of vitamins and antioxidants that have been shown to have prevent inflammation in the body, including the brain.  Cranberries, blackberries, and blueberries are ranked among the highest in all fruit with antioxidants.  In fact, just one cup of blueberries has about 13,427 antioxidants…Wow!!! When is the right time to buy these powerful berries?  Well, the answer is now… Blueberry season peaks in May and tend to be less expensive during the summer months.  So add a cup to your next snack, meal, or dessert for some extra flavor, texture, and health benefits. 

Now, you may ask yourself...What is an antioxidant and what's the big deal??  Antioxidants are compounds that fight disease and may protect cells from oxidative stress.  Oxidative stress occurs when the body is unable to repair damage, free radicals are produced, and this toxic imbalance within the body promotes cancer cell growth.  Another antioxidant called resveratrol is found in red grapes, raspberries, and mulberries.  Yes, one of the key ingredients in a glass of red wine is resveratol...so drink up!  Resveratrol has been shown to affect age-related genes and reduce the risk of cancer and Alzheimer’s disease.  Recent research has found that berries have been associated with sharpening cognitive function and protecting brain function.  According to a study from Brigham and Women’s Hospital, participants that consumed more than one to two half-cup servings of strawberries or blueberries per week showed slower mental decline due to aging.  

Wine Tasting with Friends in Fredericksburg, TX

Overall, berries improve brain functioning, prevent cancer, delay the onset of other chronic disease, and provide vital vitamins to the body.  The summer time calls for a bunch of berries to your next recipe and a glass of red wine!