Small Berry Packs Awesome Health Benefits
Black
currants, a forgotten fruit in most American diets (but extremely
popular in Europe), may be just what the doctor ordered. This
dark-colored fruit is jam packed with antioxidants, which have been
shown to have significant health benefits. Studies show that
antioxidants can prevent various types of degenerative diseases, such
as heart disease and cancer, as well as slow down the aging process and
protect the body's vision and neurological functions.
Until now,
blueberries have long been regarded as the "king of antioxidants."
Research has shown that the black currant has a much higher source of
antioxidants than the blueberry and has three times the amount of
Vitamin C found in oranges. Black currants also contain significant
amounts of vitamin B6, vitamin E, potassium, copper and soluble fiber.
They are rich in phytochemicals called anthocyanins which are
known for their outstanding anti-inflammatory benefits. Anthocyanins
are the plant pigments that give black currants their dark color - the
darker the fruit, the higher the amount of anthocyanin and the more
antioxidant benefits available.
