8 incredible health benefits of consuming berries

Berries are widely known as flavourful and beneficial entities found in the natural environment, packed with nutrients capable of significantly boosting one's health. They can be consumed raw, smoothie-style, or incorporated into your preferred dishes. Having a range of these berries in your meals is a delectable and healthful strategy to enhance your general health and wellbeing, according to Dr Dimple Jangda, an expert in Ayurveda and Gut Health, as disclosed in a recent Instagram entry.

Powerful superfoods often referred to as berries are loaded with antioxidants making them extremely rich in nutrients, capable of warding off harmful free radicals, and reducing oxidative stress.

Blueberries, blackberries, and raspberries are renowned antioxidant powerhouses, coming second to just pomegranates regarding antioxidant activity amongst typically consumed fruits.

Berries are also recognised for their significance in maintaining healthy blood sugar and insulin levels, which is particularly beneficial for people with diabetes. These fruits aid insulin sensitivity, suppress blood sugar surges and lower insulin reaction to high-carb meals.

Furthermore, berries, which contain multiple vitamins and minerals, exhibits strong attributes against inflammation. The antioxidants found in these fruits have been linked to lowering inflammation indicators.

Studies have also shown that black raspberries and strawberries can be beneficial in reducing cholesterol levels in individuals who are overweight, or have metabolic syndrome.

As with many fruits, the availability of berries is seasonal and varies across different regions. For individuals in India, the Indian gooseberry is a recommended alternative. Should frozen berries be consumed, a soak of thirty minutes before consumption is advised.

Berries are particularly beneficial for Pitta and Kapha Prakriti, and are optimal for those seeking weight loss, reducing oxidative stress, and slowing down the skin aging process.

However, for Vata Prakriti, berries should be eaten in a fruit compote form that’s rich in moisture, due to their astringent properties which may cause Vata imbalances, while Pitta and Kapha Prakriti can enjoy either raw or presoaked berries.