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Nutritional values of Saskatoon Berries

HEALTH BENEFITS OF SASKATOON BERRIES

  • Saskatoons contain high levels of antioxidants thought to act as a protective guard to our immune system
  • Labratory tests have shown that Saskatoon berries and products contain high ORAC values (Oxygen Radical Absorbance Capacity – a test that attempts to quantify the total antioxidant capacity)
  • Research indicates antioxidants help to neutralize major free radicals in our bodies to reduce the incidence of some diseases which may include diabetes, heart disease and cancer.
  • Antioxidants are thought to defend against inflammatory illnesses and reduce oxidative stresses associated with aging
  • Saskatoons contain twice the antioxidant level of blueberries
  • Research is indicating that the comsumption of saskatoon berries can provide measurable improvements in reducing disease incidence, deliver measurable improvements in blood sugar levels and provide cholesterol lowering activity.

A REVIEW OF THE NUTRITIONAL BENEFITS OF SASKATOON BERRIES

The article Flavonoid Profile of Saskatoon Berries (Amelanchier alnifolia Nutt.) and Their Health Promoting Effects, reviews a large number of studies on Saskatoon berries.

To summarize:

Anti-inflammatory – due to high anthocyanins and proanthocyanidins

Protection against cardiovascular and chronic inflammatory diseases – because the phenolic compounds reduce the oxidative stress mediated by nitric oxides

Potential anti-diabetic – Saskatoon berries strongly inhibited an enzyme involved in the etiology of diabetic microvascular complications

Potential in anti-cancer therapy for esophageal, colon, skin and lung cancer

       To access the review or to download the full-text PDF, click “access review”