Berry Good

     In the latest issue of the Nutrition Action Newsletter there was a report on the benefits to the heart relative to the consumption of certain berries.  Blueberries and strawberries may protect the heart, the report states, thanks to naturally occurring red, blue, or purple pigments called anthocyanins.

     After researchers tracked 93,000 women for 18 years they concluded that heart attack risk is significantly reduced by eating fruits containing the pigment.  It was also true for other fruits as well, including blackberries, cherries, raspberries, red cabbage, red grapes and black plums.

     So now as we begin to enjoy the fresh fruits that are now in season it makes even more sense to make colorful fruits and vegetables a part of our daily regimen.  In addition to reducing the risk of heart attacks, they also help to lower blood pressure.  But stick to whole fruit and not just juice that can have added sugars.