Berries are always a delicious snack or addition to your meal. While they are typically high in fiber and vitamin C, they also contain high amounts of antioxidant polyphenols. Antioxidants help protect your body from damage caused by unstable molecules and prevent them from damaging cells and potentially leading to chronic diseases. If you want to enjoy a sweet-tasting fruit while also protecting your body, try out these six high-antioxidant berries now.
6. Strawberries
Starting our list of high-antioxidant berries is strawberries. The red fruit contains components that help support immune system function, cardiovascular health, anti-inflammatory activity, and antioxidant activity. Several studies have been conducted with strawberries, with many improving risk factors or chronic issues like cardiometabolic disease.
RELATED: 10 Easy Ways to Add More Antioxidants to Your Diet
5. Goji Berries
Fifth on our list of high-antioxidant berries are goji berries, also known as wolfberries. While not as well-known as some of the other berries, goji berries are considered a superfood for their high antioxidant and vitamin content. This includes vitamin A and zeaxanthin, which are both important for eye health. Goji berries have several health effects, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, neuroprotective, and prebiotic.
4. Raspberries
Next on our list of high-antioxidant berries are raspberries. Rich in antioxidants, raspberries are also known for their anti-aging properties and source of fiber. Several studies have been done with different types of raspberries, and researchers have found that eating the fruit regularly can help improve markers of immune health and the gut microbiome.
CHECK OUT: 7 Best Low-Sugar Fruits to Eat for a Healthy Diet
3. Cranberries
Rounding out the top three high-antioxidant berries are cranberries. Most well-known in juice form, cranberries have a tart taste and contain several types of antioxidants, including proanthocyanidins. Cranberries’ best health benefit is reducing the risk of UTIs by preventing the bacteria E. coli from sticking to the wall of the bladder. Cranberry juice may also be also to reduce the risk of other infections as well.
ALSO READ: 7 Healthy Snacks That Helped Me Break Bad Habits
2. Blueberries
Second on our list of high-antioxidant berries are blueberries. Blueberries have some of the highest levels of antioxidants and anthocyanins in berries, and also provide a healthy source of vitamin K. With the anthocyanins, blueberries can help reduce oxidative stress, which lowers the risk of heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and neurological decline. The fruit can also have a healthy impact on the brain.
1. Blackberries
Last but not least on our list of high-antioxidant berries are blackberries. Along with blueberries, blackberries have some of the highest levels of antioxidants and anthocyanins. In several studies, researchers have found that blackberries contain several compounds that can inhibit the release of pro-inflammatory molecules linked to inflammatory conditions. Blackberries also contain high amounts of vitamin C, vitamin K, and manganese, which have been shown to reduce inflammation and boost immunity.
CHECK OUT: 6 Best Hydrating Foods to Have on Hand Through Summer