Very Berries

We should increase the daily intake of fruits and vegetables of diverse colors. These colorful fruits and vegetables are rich in polyphenols. Polyphenols were discovered in 1938 by Hungarian scientists. They used “vitamin P” to describe them. In vitro and in vivo studies, polyphenols have anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, chemo preventive and neuroprotective activities.

Polyphenols are categorized into four different groups: Flavonoids, Phenolic acids, Stilbenes and Lignans (aka FLPS) The top three fruits with large amount of Flavonoids and Phenolic acids are blue berries, black berries and cranberries. Sources of Lignans are cruciferous vegetables such as broccoli and cabbage. They are classified as phytoestrogens which are estrogen-like substances. They are good for menospausal women’s health and protect against cancer. However, compared to others, Stilbens are not as abundant in foods. Stilben is found to be rich in red wine. There are two types of Stilbens: Resveratrol and Pterostilbene. Resveratrol is very potent anti-oxidant and anti-aging agent. We should consume polyphenols rich diet because it provides significant protection against development and progression of many chronic pathological conditions including cancer, diabetes, cardiovascular problems and aging. Plan to make a very Berry salad this weekend. Mix equal amount of trimmed strawberries, blueberries and raspberries with little amount of honey. Then, dazzle the salad with lemon juice, garnished by chopped fresh mint leaves.

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