by
Stepy —
October 25, 2019
- Fresh organic foods are packed with antioxidants and unique nutrients that can keep your immune system in top shape.
- The nutrients in these organic foods can also help prevent and treat disease.
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- Red currants are part of the berry family.
- They are available frozen year-round and are available fresh during summer and also near Christmas time.
- They are often used to make jelly, wine, and sauces.
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- Let’s take a look at the health benefits of red currants.
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- Antioxidant rich:
- Red currants are a great source of antioxidants such as vitamin C and manganese. Antioxidants protect the body from the effects of oxidative stress, which may help strengthen the immune system and ward off diseases.
- Dr. Andrew Weil explains, “oxidative stress is the total burden placed on organisms by the constant production of free radicals in the normal course of metabolism plus whatever other pressures the environment brings to bear (natural and artificial radiation, toxins in air, food and water; and miscellaneous sources of oxidizing activity, such as tobacco smoke).”
- The effects of oxidative stress are often linked to chronic illnesses such as heart disease and many types of cancers.
- Cancer prevention:
- Because of the high fiber content of red currants, they may reduce the risk of developing colorectal cancer. Fiber has been shown in many studies fight colorectal cancer, including a study published in the British Medical Journal.
- Good source of vitamin C:
- One cup of red currants contains about 46mg of vitamin C. This potent vitamin is known as an immune booster, and is also for responsible for producing collagen which keeps the skin healthy.
- Gut health:
- According to Self Nutrition Data, red currants are an excellent source of dietary fiber, with 4.8g per cup, which is 19 percent of the recommended daily value. Dietary fiber is essential for healthy digestion and for maintaining regular bowel movements.
- Heart health:
- Organic red currants are great for the heart because of their antioxidant levels. They are a great source of magnesium. Low magnesium levels are thought be a key indicator for cardiovascular disease risk. One cup of red currants contains about 15mg of magnesium.
- Regulates blood pressure:
- Red currants are a great source of potassium, which is essential for regulating blood pressure.
- According to the American Heart Association, “A diet that includes natural sources of potassium is important in controlling blood pressure because potassium lessens the effects of sodium. The recommended daily intake of potassium for an average adult is about 4,700 milligrams per day.”
- Weight loss:
- Organic red currants are low in calories, with only 63 per cup. They are also low in fat and high in dietary fiber, making them an ideal weight loss food. Fiber makes you feel full faster, so you eat less.
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- Note: None of the information in our website is intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any illness or disease. The content on our website is for educational purposes only.
- For a blackberry immune booster smoothie.
- Health benefits of blueberries.
- For a raspberry and mint infused water.
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- REFERENCES:
- 1. “Nutrition Facts and Analysis for Currants, Red and White, Raw.” Self Nutrition Data. Self Nutrition Data, n.d. Web. 11 Aug. 2014.
- 2. “Dietary Fibre, Whole Grains, and Risk of Colorectal Cancer: Systematic Review and Dose-response Meta-analysis of Prospective Studies.” The BMJ. British Medical Journal, 21 Sept. 2011. Web. 11 Aug. 2014.
- 3. “Potassium and High Blood Pressure.” Heart.org. American Heart Association, n.d. Web. 11 Aug. 2014.
- 4. “Stumped by Oxidative Stress?” WEIL. Dr. Andrew Weil, 17 Mar. 2009. Web. 11 Aug. 2014.
