(NaturalNews) Aronia berries are a little known superfood that have tremendous nutritional value. European researchers have extensively studied the extract of Aronia fruit and found it to be a nutrient dense food with incredible protective and healing properties. A host of health issues are eased with the Aronia berry including high-blood pressure, cardiovascular disease, cancer, and diabetes. A rich source of antioxidants, this fruit also provides strong protection against aging and neurodegeneration.
Sometimes referred to as Chokeberries, the Aronia Melanocarpa fruit is native to North America. These robust shrubs often grow in swamps and damp woodlands, able to withstand salty and harsh conditions. Growing to a maximum height of four meters, the plant produces clusters of dark purple fruit that are quite bitter due to the high tannin content. Cooking reduces the astringent quality of the berries, and they are frequently used in wine and jam making. Freezing the berries also tempers the bitter taste while increasing sweetness. Aronia berries were an integral part of a traditional Native American diet for centuries. Today, Aronia berries can be easily grown and cultivated in a backyard garden, often yielding up to 40 pounds of fruit per bush during the growing season.
The Aronia berry has been shown to reduce tumors, stabilize blood sugar, and improve cardiovascular health. This remarkable berry also has impressive antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties. Aronia is also rich in antioxidants, which promote heart health and discourage cancer. In an extensive study by the USDA, Aronia berries were found to have a high concentration of anthocyanins. This powerful class of flavonoids is found in fruits and berries. The deeper the color, the higher the anthocyanin content. In the study, Aronia berries were found superior in antioxidant levels when compared with blueberries, blackberries, gooseberries, red currants, and elderberries. Since antioxidants are a key component in cancer prevention and tumor reduction, the Aronia berry provides potent protection.
According to Dr. Iwona Wawer, a world-renowned researcher of Aronia Melanocarpa:
"Polyphenols of Aronia can play an important role in prevention and control of cancer development since antioxidants modulate all three stages: initiation, promotion and progression of cancers...The compounds present in Aronia berries may act as detoxifying agents by reducing oxidizing substances."
Dr. Wawer continues:
"The aging process and neurodegeneration are increasingly associated with oxidative stress. Oxidative stress-related neuronal decline can be inhibited by dietary intervention (with) supplementation of neuroprotective flavonoids."
As a powerfully healing supplement to one's diet, Aronia berries offer vast protection against a variety of health concerns. Share in the many benefits of this amazing fruit and enjoy abundant health and well-being.
Sources for this article:
"Aronia berry health benefit", Ray Sahelian, MD. Retrieved on July 28, 2011 from,
http://www.raysahelian.com/aronia.html"Aronia melanocarpa phenolics and their antioxidant activity", Jan Oszmianski and Aneta Wojdylo, European Food Research and Technology, Volume 221, Number 6, 809-813.
"Grow Your Own Antioxidants with Aronia Berry Bushes", Barbara L. Minton, Natural News, May 14, 2009. Retrieved on July 30, 2011 from,
http://www.naturalnews.com/026263_aronia_berries_berry.html"The Power of Nature: Aronia Melanocarpa", Professor Iwona Wawer, Mae's Health and Wellness Publishing, Nebraska, 2010.
About the author
Carolanne enthusiastically believes if we want to see change in the world, we need to be the change. As a nutritionist, natural foods chef, and wellness coach, Carolanne has encouraged others to embrace a healthy lifestyle of organic living, gratefulness, and joyful orientation for over 13 years. Through her website
www.Thrive-Living.com she looks forward to connecting with other like-minded people from around the world who share a similar vision.
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