Aronia Berries: The New Superfood with Real Health Benefits
As you already know, the term superfood defines a food loaded with nutritional elements that strengthen and help the human body. So, besides kale, blueberries, or green tea, you can now add aronia berries to the list.
Considering that it is a relatively new fruit on the Romanian market, in this article we will discuss the nutritional value and aronia benefits it brings when consumed constantly.
Nutritional Value
100 grams of aronia berries contain:
- 47 calories
- 6 grams carbohydrates
- 5 grams fat
- 3 grams fiber
- Over 2000 mg of antioxidants
Also, specialists recommend including these fruits in our daily diet because they are rich in vitamins (A, C, B, E, and K), folic acid, and minerals (calcium, potassium, iron, magnesium, manganese, and zinc).
This mix of vitamins, fiber, minerals, and antioxidants boosts the body and the immune system, cleans the arteries, regulates blood sugar levels, and reduces inflammation. Therefore, you can consider these small berries a gift from Mother Nature!
Antioxidant Power
As their name suggests, antioxidants stop (or slow down) the process of cell oxidation. Over time, oxidation leads to tissue damage and even destruction, and it is the process underlying aging.
In conclusion, if you consistently consume antioxidant-rich foods, you have a high chance of slowing down the aging process. This means more beautiful and elastic skin, strong muscles, healthy organs, and a general well-being even as you age.
Experts tell us that the amount of antioxidants available in 100 grams of aronia berries (the darker variety) is higher than in other superfoods (blueberries, goji berries, or raspberries). Moreover, the berries are rich in carotenes, lutein, and zeaxanthin, elements that help maintain and protect eye health from age-related diseases.
Reduce Risk of Cancer and Diabetes
The high antioxidant content is considered an important factor in reducing the risk of cancer, diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, or other diseases that can be caused by inflammation.
Although studies do not yet have concrete results, if we consider the characteristics of this fruit (described above), it is understandable why specialists place it on the superfoods list. Moreover, natural aronia juice is among the most recommended methods for preventing these devastating diseases.