All About Berries!
We all like to get our money’s worth when we buy something from a store or go out to eat at a restaurant. But how about getting your calories worth from your food? Berries are the superstar of making the most of your calories. Berries are low in calories but high in nutrients and are sweet and delicious; almost like dessert. Berries are in their peak season during summer, but thanks to your local grocery store they can be enjoyed all year long.
Cool with Blue: At only 57 calories a cup, blueberries give you serious power and taste without the high calorie price. Blueberries have extremely high levels of antioxidants (such as vitamin C), as well as folate, magnesium, and fiber. They also contain a high amount of potassium. Blueberries can lower you risk of heart disease as well as act as an anti-inflammatory. Instead of handing kids a pack of candy when they are hungry, try giving them blueberries. Want to take it up a notch? Eat them with yogurt or nuts.
Black Attack: Blackberries in the summer are sweet and delicious and only 43 calories per cup. Yes you read correctly, 43 calories. That one cup contains 5 grams of fiber and lots of antioxidants. Ever wondered why they are so dark? That’s due to the anthocyanins they contain. Anthocyanins are a powerful phytonutrient that can help prevent cancer. Put down that donut you grabbed for breakfast and try a bowl of blackberries. Want to take it up a notch? Throw them on top of oatmeal.
Get ahead with Red: This fragile yet delicious summer berry is full of vitamin C and seven grams of fiber per serving. At only 52 calories per serving it’s hard to say no, and luckily you don’t have to because your body will thank you for picking this power fruit for a snack. Raspberries are rich in antioxidants which supports heart health, and can help reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease. Craving something sweet after dinner? Try having a bowl of fresh raspberries. (For an extra sweet treat drizzle a little cream on top.)
The Power Berry: Who doesn’t love strawberries? With their juicy and delicious taste it’s easy to see why strawberries are the most popular berry and one of the most popular fruit varieties in the United States. In a one cup serving, strawberries tout only 50 calories and 85 milligrams of vitamin C. These power berries can help to improve blood levels and are a great source of potassium. Need a pre workout snack? Skip the high-calorie bar and enjoy a whole bowl of strawberries. Want to take it up a notch? Eat them with cottage cheese.