Berries contain vitamins, but they also contain plant compounds known as polyphenols.
According to Daniel Ibsen, a nutrition researcher at Steno Diabetes Center Aarhus and Aarhus University from Denmark, research has shown that some of these compounds may have positive effects on blood pressure, blood sugar levels, and the risk of cardiovascular and metabolic diseases.
This was stated in an interview with DR.
The researcher also emphasizes that all fruits and vegetables are healthy, but berries stand out because of their high polyphenol content.
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Small differences
Not all berries contain the same amounts of these beneficial compounds.
According to DR, dark berries such as blackcurrants, blackberries, and wild blueberries are particularly rich in anthocyanins, the natural pigments that give the berries their color.
Daniel Ibsen also points out that berries in season can be a good choice.
Research shows that storage and transportation can affect polyphenol levels, although there are no conclusive studies on what impact this has on human health.
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Among the healthiest fruits
The size of the berry may also make a difference.
Many of the beneficial compounds are found in the skin, meaning that smaller berries provide proportionally more skin than larger ones.
Daniel Ibsen told DR that he considers berries to be among the healthiest fruits people can eat.
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