BERRYLICIOUS

Not only are berries a powerful source of antioxidants and assist in keeping a healthy brain but they also promote a healthy digestive system too.





Blueberries are rich in pectin a solube fiber and work to relieve both diarrhea and constipation. The tannins in blueberries reduce inflamation in the digestive system and the polyphenols have antibacterial properties. There are components of blueberries that reduce the ability of E. Coli, a bacterium that commonly causess urinary tract infection to stick to the mucosal lining of the uretha and bladder.


To get a healthy serving of blueberries you can do so via juices or jams.

Here are some juices and jams with high polyphenols

JUICES milligrams of polyphenol per 8 oz serving
Odwalla C Monster 845 mg
Trader Joe's 100% Unfiltered Concord Grape Juice 670 mg
R.W. Knudsen 100% Pomegranate Juice 639 mg

JAMS mgs of polyphenols per 20 grams - 1 tablespoon
Trader Joe's Organic Blueberry Fruit Spread 400 mg
Knott's Pure Boysenberry Preserves 300 mg
Trader Joe's Organic Blackberry Fruit Spread 280 mg

Side bar If you decide to get your blueberry fix via juices cut the calories by mixing half of it with carbonated water.

Tannins - Defensive compounds that counteract bacteria and fungi by interfering with their surface proteins
Polyphenols - Act as antioxidants. They protect cells and body chemicals against damage caused by free radicals.