Aronia Berries: The new antioxidant super fruit

The aroniaberry (also known as a chokeberry) has proven to be one of nature’s most powerful antioxidants. In simple terms, antioxidants are a chemical compound or substance such as Vitamin E and C, found in foods, which are thought to protect the body’s cells from the damaging effects of oxidation.
Here is how this superfruit stacks up:

• Aroniaberries have higher antioxidant levels than other berries (see ORAC chart on the “Science” page). Not only are they low in sugar, they also contain beneficial nutrients, such as quercetin, quinic, minerals and vitamins.
• Aroniaberries contain the highest levels of anthocyanins (the pigment in the berry that gives them their dark purplish-black color) and proanthocyanidins (plant-based super-antioxidants) when compared to many of the other well-known “superfruits.”

Science has shown that foods high in anthocyanins have been proven to protect cells from oxidative damage caused by free radicals. These high concentrations of anthocyanins may provide some health-promoting effects, such as:

• Reduction of inflammation and C-reactive protein levels
• Lowering of glucose levels

Proanthocyanidins offer a wide variety of health benefits as well. Science has shown that foods high in proanthocyanidin content may help:

• Improve circulation by strengthening capillary walls
• Inhibit enzymes that break down collagen
• Reduce allergy production

In addition, the powerful components in the amazing aroniaberry have been found to:

• Inhibit abnormal cell growth
• Have an anti-mutagenic effect on cells
• Improve function of the circulatory, respiratory and digestive systems
• Prevent gastric damage
• Protect heart cells from cell membrane damage and DNA fragmentation
• Reduce inflammation in the eyes
• Protect the liver from chemical damage
• Enhance overall wellness