Berries are among the most popular and common fruits that Americans enjoy. Blackberries hold a special place in this fruit family because they cover so many culinary bases: they have texture, they’re easy to eat and handle, and they offer tons of flavor. If you’re one of the many who love blackberries, you’ll be happy to know that these little bursts of sweetness also provide many fantastic health perks. Add them to yogurts, cereals, salads, homemade bread, or just enjoy them on their own—like most foods, blackberries are at their best when they’re in their natural form. Here are eight amazing they bring to your diet.
1. Contain natural sugar
Blackberries satiate many a sweet tooth, but they do it in a healthy way. Packed with glucose, fructose, and sucrose, our bodies can easily tap into the natural and healthy sugar that blackberries provide for a quick, sweet energy source.
2. Boost brain health
Blackberries can help prevent brain inflammation, which (if left unchecked) can lead to issues with motor control and memory. Your brain loves the inflammation-fighting powers of these little berries, and it’s possible that eating more of them can improve memory and motor skills that are often lost in old age.
3. Reduce Alzheimer’s risk
Speaking of brain health, blackberries have been studied (and praised) for their benefit on an aging brain, and that includes offering protection from certain neurological disorders. Blackberries can help prevent age-related brain diseases, such as Alzheimer’s.
4. Full of fiber
Blackberries are high in fiber, which makes us feel full. The other huge health benefit that fiber provides in easing digestion and waste creation. If you’re fiber deficient, you probably have a hard time digesting your food, and if you get too much “leftover” food sitting stagnant in your system, it can become pretty uncomfortable. Try adding blackberries to Greek yogurt or oatmeal—also a fibrous food—for a protein-rich, fiber-fill snack.
5. Support the immune system
Blackberries pack a wide array of nutritional benefits, but one of their biggest is their high Vitamin C supply. Vitamin C is a known immune system booster, and it’s a critical vitamin for your body when it comes to fighting off disease, illness, and infection.
6. Combat heart disease
With antioxidants and phytoestrogens, blackberries have been linked to a healthy heart. The flavonoids that blackberries contain are great for preventing cardiovascular disease.
7. Offer micronutrients
If you’ve checked out the benefits of micronutrients, you know they’re an important part of a healthy diet. Blackberries provide a whole host of micronutrients, including folic acid, beta carotene, and calcium.
8. Enhance skin health
Finally, Vitamin C in blackberries doesn’t just benefit your immune system—it’s great for your skin too. Vitamin C promotes collagen creation, which helps keep your skin firm and supple. It also protects against sun damage.
Also Read: Natural Face Cleansers You Can Make at Home
