6 Most Amazing Benefits Of Blackberries On Your Health

Although blueberries and strawberries may be the first things that pop in your mind when we say the word "berries," blackberries are just as delicious and versatile. And experts now believe that owing to their nutritional profile, they’re here to stay. Here's a list of health benefits that blackberries provide.

# May Boost Brain Health

Blackberries can help you ace your next test. Studies have found that eating blackberries may boost brain health and age-related memory loss and motor issues caused due to an inflammation in the brain. This could be due to the antioxidants in these berries which fight free radical damage and alter how brain neurons communicate and lower inflammation.

# May Support Oral Health

A bowl of blackberries a day might keep your appointment with a dentist away. Studies have found that blackberry extract has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory abilities against the types of bacteria that cause gum disease and cavities. Although more studies are needed to fully validate this, it wouldn’t hurt to consume blackberries regularly. Alternatively, look for chewing gum or toothpaste with blackberry extract.

# Prevents Blood Sugar Spikes

If you have a sweet tooth but need to watch your sugar intake, opt for a bowl of blackberries. Their glycemic index is 4 (anything under 55 is low) and with only 62 calories in a cup of raw blackberries, you’re less likely to cause spikes in your blood sugar after snacking on them.

# May Prevent The Formation Of Cancer-Causing Substances

Since blackberries contain a host of vitamins that function as antioxidants, especially vitamin C, experts believe that regular consumption may reduce the formation of cancer-causing substances in the body by reducing oxidative stress that leads to cancer. However, more research is needed to further understand this.

# May Maintain Skin Health And Heal Wounds

Complement your everyday skincare regime with a serving of blackberries. Their antioxidant content fights free radical damage that leads to wrinkles and other signs of aging. They’re also packed with vitamin C and K which keep skin healthy and well functioning. Besides this, antioxidants maintain collagen production (which declines as we age) and speed up wound healing.

# May Boost Immunity

Vitamin A and vitamin C aid in maintaining a healthy immune system. And since blackberries contain carotenoids, the precursors to vitamin A, consuming blackberries regularly may stave off the seasonal flu.