Recipes: Blackberries – Brain Power
Blackberries are rich in antioxidants which help keep toxins out of the body. Due their abundance in polyphenols (type of antioxidant) they are reputed to have anti-inflammatory properties. Inflammation is at the heart of many chronic conditions and premature aging in the body. Studies from European Journal of Nutrition and Nutritional Neuroscience Journal showed benefits from 8 weeks of consuming blackberries with improved cognitive and motor functions and neuroprotective benefits.[i] It is thought these benefits are due to a high polyphenol and manganese content. Manganese is a trace mineral that is essential to the functioning of the brain. Blackberries also contain anthocyanin like many other purple colour foods including blueberries, cherries and red cabbage. Anthocyanin has been positively linked to increased longevity, cardiovascular health and dementia.