Blackberry
Juicy Trivia
The blackberry is an aggregate fruit that is made up of lots of smaller fruits called drupes. It is also a member of the rose family and is amongst the top ten fruits containing high levels of antioxidants.
The blackberry is the official state fruit of Alabama, who knew!
Juice or Smoothie?
Both: These versatile berries can be juiced or blended into a tasty smoothie. Just remember, when juicing, the tighter you pack them into the chute, the more juice you will get (and if your juicer has different speed settings, always use the lowest speed for soft fleshy fruits such as berries).
Juicy Benefits
Blackberries are nutrient rich and boast a variety of health benefits. They contain both soluble and insoluble fibre. Insoluble fibre aids in digestive health, by allowing the large intestine to more easily absotb excess water. This adds bulk to the stool, increasing regularity and therefore possibly preventing constipation. Blackberries are high in vitamin C which can help to prevent infection and support immunity. It has also been suggested that blackberries may be able to reduce inflammation associated with arthritis. They are also anti-bacterial and can be very useful in tackling bouts of diarrhea caused by foreign bacteria, as they help to neutralise such ‘unfriendly’ bacteria.
Research
Blackberries contain pectin, a soluble fibre known to assist in lowering LDL levels (aka'bad' cholesterol). A 1987 University of Florida study conducted by Dr. James Cerda and published in Science News, illustrated that, after four months of taking fruit pectin supplements, participants in the study were able to reduce their cholesterol levels by an average of 9 percent. The fibre and pectin present in blackberries may help to promote cardiovascular health by reducing high cholesterol levels. This isn't the blackberry's only heart-healthy feature, oh no. The magnesium in these powerful berries contributes to cardiovascular health by relaxing the arteries and blood vessels within the bod, allowing the oxygen-rich blood to pass more easily to the heart. Magnesium also helps prevent free radicals from damaging the heart muscle following a heart attack.
Vitamins, Minerals and Extras
Vitamins A, B1, B2, Niacin, Folate, Pantothenic Acid, B6, C, E, and K.
Potassium, Phosphorus, Magnesium, Calcium, Sodium, Iron, Selenium, Manganese, Copper and Zinc.
References
Pinnock, Dale, 2011, Medical Cookery, Right Way, London.
Disclaimer
Please be aware that we are not Doctors, so it is important BEFORE making any changes that you consult with your GP or Medical Practitioner. The suggestions above are not meant as an alternative to any current medical treatment so please DO NOT stop taking any medications you are on. They are also not an endorsement of their effectiveness, nor a recommendation that they should be followed but instead, provided for informational purposes. None of the information on the Natural Juice Therapy site is intended or implied to treat, cure or prevent any condition or disease.