Health effects of berries

According to studies, wild berries growing in the northern latitudes are especially rich in health-beneficial ingredients, such as vitamins, flavonoids, minerals and antioxidants. Berries consist mainly of water, 80 to 90% of their fresh weight is water. Out of dry substances, the majority is carbohydrates and organic acids. Berries contain only small amounts of protein and fat. Because berries are low in fat and contain lots of water, just a minimal amount of energy is gained from them. Most of the energy in berries comes from natural sugars.

Health effects of berries are actively studied, and there are always new research results supporting the benefits of eating more berries. For now, health effects of berries have not been approved by the EU, but there are many approved health claims for many of the vitamins and minerals found in berries. Use of berries is supported by many different factors, such as low energy content, small amount of sodium, fiber content, vitamins, minerals and phenolic compounds. It’s recommended to eat at least 2 decilitres of berries daily; this provides a significant amount of various vitamins, minerals, trace elements and polyphenols that support well-being but with little energy.