Tuesday, February 12, 2013

Best Antioxidants

It seems that purple berries are recognized as being amongst the best antioxidants.  But, wait a minute; we were always told that blueberries were number one!

It's a bit like asking who your favorite film star is, but even more of a question of taste!  However, some studies now suggest that black currant, elderberry, and chokeberry, lumped together as purple berries, are the best antioxidants in town.

Current thinking seems to be that the darker the color of the berries, the higher they climb in the best antioxidant ratings.  Research is now supporting the color theory, and that purple berries may be 50% higher in best antioxidants content, than some lighter varieties.  So it does appear that they might not just be lighter in color, but lighter in content as well!
 
Some researchers are predicting that purple berries will become more commercial, as they become better known as being amongst the best antioxidants.  They believe they will be used more extensively in health drinks, health foods, and supplements as demand increases.

It is not only purple berries that are emerging as best antioxidants, because beans, artichokes, and Russet potatoes, are also gaining recognition.  Beans have always been associated with natural health, hence the adage - full of beans.  However, it was not necessarily thought that full of beans also meant, being full of the best antioxidants, but it's worth a thought.

A recent study involved testing over 100 foods to find the best antioxidants.  The foods included, fruit and vegetables, as well as nuts and spices.  Purple berries, blueberries, blackberries, and cranberries, ranked highest in the fruits, whilst beans and artichokes were confirmed as the best antioxidants, in the vegetable classes.

All of the studies concerning the best antioxidants are interesting, but all you really need to remember to benefit your natural health is to choose wisely, and get the 5 - 9 recommended daily helpings of fruit and vegetables.

Tags:

natural health