Chokeberries
Healthy Habits
Chokeberries
Chokeberries, also known as aronia berries and not to be confused with chokecherries, have the highest antioxidant content of any fruit! They contain 4 times the polyphenols of blueberries; with purple and red varieties having the most flavonoids. Their rich antioxidant content assists the body in protecting against free radicals and oxidative stress which can prevent cancer and other diseases.
Here’s a list of some of the many health benefits of these “super berries”: regulates blood pressure, anti-diabetic, anti-cancer, anti-aging, boosts the immune system, anti-inflammatory, heart healthy/cardioprotective, helps treat metabolic syndrome (high blood pressure, inflammation and high cholesterol), helps treat radiation sickness, antioxidant, improves cognitive function, helps with weight loss/management and antiviral.
Chokeberries were gathered by Native Americans for hundreds of years as a source of food and medicine. They are rich in vitamins A, C and E, as well as potassium, manganese, magnesium, folate, zinc, iron and fiber. They are a diabetic-friendly food and are also a good source of natural antihistamines and anti-stress agents – via their quercetin content. www.healthline.com/nutrition/
You can grow your own, harvest them in the wild or purchase them in powder, capsules and tinctures. Look for products that are organic and non-gmo. If you’re buying capsules or powders, look for: raw, freeze-dried berries. Ask your local grocery or health food store to stock them for you.
These tart berries are perfect for making syrups, juices, jams and smoothies and can also be added into baked goods, either dried or fresh. Always do your research and/or check with your health care provider before trying.
There are some counterindications such as for those who have kidney issues.
Be Well and God Bless You,
Jennifer Wimmer
