The Best Super Berries for Antioxidants

Deep blue and red colored berries typically contain pigments that support antioxidant richness.

The best super berries for antioxidants, which are molecules that act against harmful free radicals, include blueberries, acai berries, cranberries and raspberries. Antioxidants combat the electron-scavenging process by donating their electrons to free radicals, halting or entirely preventing their effects. Free radicals can cause internal and visible cellular degeneration.

Blueberries

According to TrueBlue, blueberries are one of the highest antioxidant-containing fruits, reaching oxygen radical absorbance capacity levels of 2400 per 100 grams, a 50 percent higher level than commonly eaten fruits and vegetables. TrueBlue also states that anthocyanin, the pigment that is responsible for blueberries' blue coloring, could also be responsible for the fruit's health benefits. This super berry's high amount of antioxidants can fight against by-product cellular damage from heart disease, cancer and sun overexposure.

Cranberries

As stated by Bastyr Center for Natural Health, one serving of cranberries affords more antioxidants than the average daily intake of fruits. Cranberries' antioxidants can be effective when the fruit is consumed fresh, cooked or in juice form. The antioxidant levels of cranberries are not altered with sugar additions or other flavor enhancements. Consuming cranberries regularly can lower your risk of heart disease and some cancers.

Raspberries

Raspberries are antioxidant-rich super berries that can also aid in antioxidant absorption. According to Natural News, 50 percent of raspberries' antioxidant effects are products of ellagitannins, which are also known to have anti-aging benefits. Additionally, raspberries contain a rare and strong antioxidant property called antimicrobial. Equal amounts of antioxidants can be ingested from fresh or frozen raspberries. Raspberries may also contain significantly higher antioxidant levels than broccoli or tomatoes.

Purple Variety Acai Berries

The deep purple pigmented skin and pulp of acai berries contain high amounts of antioxidants and flavonoids that act as antioxidants. Antioxidants from acai berries can be ingested by consuming the whole fresh fruit or by drinking their juice. Acai berries are among the more difficult fruits to find fresh, so purchasing pure juices or supplements from trusted health or online retail stores might be more convenient.

References

• TrueBlue: Blueberries: The #1 Antioxidant Fruit
• Bastyr Center For Natural Health: Health Information; Health Conditions and Concerns Nutrition; Cranberries-Antioxidant Superstars
• Natural News: Raspberries-A Better Source of Antioxidants
• Global Healing Center: The Health Benefits of Antioxidants; Dr. Edward Group