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Step 1
Like the blueberry, boysenberries are a rich source of anthocyanins, natural antioxidants which help to maintain healthy brain cells and protect against oxidative damage that leads to brain aging and Alzheimer’s disease. They also appear to play a role in boosting memory. The anthocyanins have already been shown to prevent oxidative damage in the test tube, and it’s hoped this will be confirmed in animal and human models.
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Step 2
These aren’t the only health benefits of boysenberries. Boysenberry anthocyanins appear to have anti-inflammatory and cancer inhibitory properties in preliminary studies, and may be particularly effective against tumors of the colon and esophagus. The boysenberry, along with other deeply colored berries, are excellent food sources of cell protective anthocyanins, making them an important part of any diet.
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Step 3
Boysenberries are a fat-free fruit treat that’s also low in calories. At only sixty-six calories per cup, they’re a guilt-free snack or dessert. A one cup serving has seven grams of soluble fiber which helps to lower cholesterol and maintain heart health
. They also provide almost a third of the daily recommended amount of folate, a form of B vitamin that’s particularly important during pregnancy to prevent neural tube defects in the unborn baby. -
Step 4
With these wonderful health benefits, you’ll want to keep your eyes open for these luscious berries. Unfortunately, it can be a challenge to find them in some grocery stores. Some markets stock them in cans or in packages in the frozen food section. One of the best places to find these berries is at a local farmer’s market. When you find them, be sure to stock up since they can be frozen for later use. You can also dry them in a dehydrator to add to trail mix or homemade granola bars.
