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October is breast cancer awareness month, and we’ve all
seen the pink ribbons, apparel and products that support breast cancer research
popping up in the stores. In the world of nutrition, all this pink reminds us
of the important health benefits of purple, pink’s color cousin. Purple fruits
and vegetables pack a powerful combination of nutrients that directly benefit
our health and wellness. Here are 7 important nutrients found in purple fruits
and vegetables.
1. Polyphenols
which include Anthocyanins and Anthocyanidins
Polyphenols are naturally found in food, and they can act as antioxidants in the body and lower blood sugar. Studies of polyphenols have demonstrated that they may reduce the risk of heart disease, prevent blood clots, promote healthy digestion and brain function, and protect against cancer. Including purple fruits such as Aronia berries, black currants, and blueberries, and vegetables such as red onions in your diet will ensure you are eating plenty of polyphenols.
2. Tannins
We often associate tannins with wine, but they are present
in other foods as well. They are the astringent compounds that give those foods
their unique mouthfeel. Tannins also have antioxidant effects on the body as
well as helping to stabilize blood pressure and promote faster healing of
wounds. If you don’t drink wine, tea, or coffee, you can also benefit from the
tannins that occur naturally in pomegranates and a variety of berries,
including Aronia berries.
3. Quercetin
Quercetin is a plant pigment and can be referred to as a
polyphenol or a flavonoid. It acts as antioxidant and can be found in many
foods, such as red wine, onions, and berries. It helps reduce inflammation,
blood pressure, and symptoms of allergies, and it has been shown to reduce the
risk of cancer. Quercetin is the most potent antioxidant present in Aronia
berries.
4. Vitamin C and B Complex Vitamins
Vitamin C is a versatile vitamin that provides many health
benefits, such as protecting us against immune deficiency, heart disease,
cancer, stroke, eye disease, and skin aging. The B complex vitamins are a group
of 8 B vitamins that help enzymes in the human body function and help prevent
cancer. One serving of Aronia berries contains significant amounts of vitamin C
and some B complex vitamins.
5. Resveratrol
Resveratrol is another plant compound that provides
antioxidant effects. It is commonly found in red wine and grapes and in some
berries. Like other antioxidant compounds, it has many potential benefits to
the human body. It may suppress cancer cells and positively affect blood fat
levels, joint pain, blood pressure, and insulin sensitivity. Like other purple-colored
berries, Aronia berries are a good source of resveratrol.
6. Minerals
Aronia berries also contain minerals such as calcium,
iron, magnesium, potassium, and zinc. These minerals are essential for the
development and maintenance of healthy bones, muscles, and blood cells and they
play essential roles in wound healing, growth, and maturation.
7. Chlorogenic acid
Chlorogenic acid is another polyphenol compound and is found
in coffee beans, apples, pears, eggplants, potatoes, and a variety of berries. Like
other antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compounds, chlorogenic acid may help
lower blood pressure and blood sugar levels, and it is linked to improved mood
and cognitive function. Aronia berries are an excellent source of chlorogenic
acid.
Including Aronia berries in
your diet is the perfect way to take advantage of the power of purple. Superberries
Aronia Berry Combos make it easy for you to eat Aronia berries every day,
whether you’re cooking at home or on the go. The Berry Basic Combo includes
Aronia Berry Concentrate and Aronia Berry Gummy Chews and The Superberries Aronia Berry Essentials
Combo provides even more options with Aronia Berry Concentrate, Aronia Berry
Gummy Chews, and Frozen Aronia Berries.
