Facts about Blackberries
The blackberry is actually an aggregate fruit which is consisting of
some smaller fruits known as drupes. The fruit is extremely dark
purple and has a smooth, delicate skin. The blackberry contains a
greenish-white core which reaches near the bottom. Blackberries are
usually wrongly identified as raspberries. However, raspberries
contain a hollow center. When raw, blackberries are red in color and
hard, and change to black and shiny once they ripen.
The blackberry tree has a number of long, trailing or arching stems
(known as canes). The berries are grown on two year-old canes. The
blackberry may reach as high as 10 feet. The canes are pale green
with thorns; even so, you may find thornless species.
The leaves of blackberry are structured alternately along the cane
and each and every leaf comprises 3-5 leaflets. The compound leaves
can be seen intensely toothed along the edges, fairly prickly, and
in bright green.
Health Benefits of Eating Blackberries
Blackberry Antioxidants
Vitamin C functions as an antioxidant, and a cup of the berries
makes up half the daily allowance of vitamin C. Our body applies
vitamin C to build stronger immune system, and vitamin C reduces the
chance of developing cardiovascular disease, certain kinds of
cancer, as well as macular degeneration. Vitamin C helps wound
healing, and research has revealed vitamin C could possibly reduce
the presence of wrinkles.
Blackberries feature ellagic acid, a powerful antioxidant which has
been proven to shield our skin from harm by ultraviolet. New
scientific studies discover that ellagic acid not only prevents our
skin from harm, but also fix skin hurt by sunlight. Furthermore,
based on the American Cancer Society, research has revealed that ellagic acid contains anti-cancer properties.
Anthocyanins are compounds that provide blackberries with the dark color. They are found to diminish inflammation. Being an
antioxidant, anthocyanins assist in combating free radicals in our
body that damage cells and cause illnesses including cancer and
cardiovascular disease.
Phytoestrogens in Blackberries
Phytoestrogens are naturally sourced plant estrogens that help ease
the typical symptoms of PMS such as bloating, hunger, and relieve
menopausal symptoms like hot flashes. Phytoestrogens can also help
with immune and brain functioning and heart wellbeing.
Dietary Fiber in Blackberries
A cup of blackberries consists of 8 g of dietary fiber, attaining 31
percent of the daily recommended volume. Dietary fiber boosts
healthy digestive function and may reduce the risk of getting
specific diseases like cardiovascular disease and diabetes. Studies
have also discovered that dietary fiber helps weight loss.
Vitamin K in Blackberries
Blackberries are rich in vitamin K, providing 36 percent of the
daily recommended quantity. Vitamin K is normally applied by our
body for blood clotting and to help in absorption of calcium.
How to Choose and Buy Blackberries?
- Select berries that are deeply-colored, glossy and plump. Avoid
blackberries that are bruised.
- Look into the container for stains, which show spoiled berries on
the bottom. If you can, try out some to assure they are not too
sour.
How to Store Blackberries?
- Sort out and dispose of any bruised or spoiled berries. Handle
properly. Store unwashed blackberries in a shallow container and cover using
paper towel. Put in the fridge for approximately 2 days.
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