Blackberries Overview
Blackberries are rich in Vitamin A, C, K, fiber and also high levels of antioxidants. Blackberries has many health benefits which includes hair care, skin care, heart health, improves vision among others.
Blackberries Nutrition
Amount per 100 grams
- Calories 43
- Sodium 1 mg
- Potassium 162 mg -4% RDA
- Carbohydrate 10 g – 3% RDA
- Dietary fiber 5 g – 20% RDA
- Sugar 4.9 g
- Protein 1.4 g – 2% RDA
- Vitamin A 4% RDA
- Vitamin C 35% RDA
- Calcium 2%
- Iron 3% RDA
- Magnesium 5% RDA
Blackberries
10 Health Benefits of Blackberries
1. Skin Care
Blackberries contain antioxidants anthocyanocides and polyphenols which help fight free radicals which can cause skin damage and even skin cancer. They also contains Vitamin A and C which helps in the production of collagen which prevents wrinkling by maintaining the skin elasticity.
2. Wound Treatment
Blackberry leaves contain tannins with brilliant astringent qualities. These prevent the formation of blood clots. Traditionally, the fruit leaves are used to heal wounds, open sores and scratches. Blackberries also assist in soothing skin ailments like psoriasis. The antioxidants aid in clearing acne.
The brew made from blackberry leaves is applied topically to cure eczema.
3. Hair Care
Vitamin C, found in blackberries, is largely responsible for collagen production and contributes to strong hair. The antioxidants help combat the harmful and damaging effects of the environment on the hair. The topical application of the fruit extract is known to add instant volume, shine and bounce to the hair.
4. Reduces Cancer risk
Blackberries has Ellagic acid which is an antioxidant and can help in the prevention of the growth of certain cancer cells.
5. Aids in normal blood clotting
Blackberries contain a good amount of vitamin K, which helps in normal clotting of blood. It also helps in preventing excessive bleeding from slight injuries and aids in healing wounds.
6. Boosts Immunity
Blackberries contain minerals like potassium, manganese, copper, and magnesium. Together, these help a great deal in producing white and red blood cells.
7. Bone strength
Black berries has calcium and magnesium which aids in bone strength. Calcium strengthens the bones and magnesium facilitates the absorption of calcium and potassium into the body. In addition to this, phosphorus present in blackberry aids in the regulation of calcium, thus assisting in building strong bones and also contributing to proper cellular functioning.
Vitamin K present in blackberries plays an important role in protecting bones from osteoporosis.
8. Prevents Endothelial Dysfunction
Blackberries provide protection against the endothelial dysfunction which is characterized by an abnormal functioning of the inner lining of blood vessels. As suggested by scientific studies, they contain useful components such as cyanidin-3-O-glucoside, which fight the oxidative activity and help in normalizing multiple critical factors implicated in such conditions. It also helps in reducing DNA damage and guards against vascular failure.
9. Aids in Digestion
Blackberries are a source of both insoluble and soluble fiber essential for the optimum functioning of the digestive system. Insoluble fiber in blackberries encourages easy and better absorption of water in the large intestine and adds bulk to the stools. This aids in regular bowel movements, freedom from constipation, and apt digestive health.
10. Improves Vision
Blackberry contains lutein which forms a protective pigment called macula in the area behind the retina and prevents it from the damage caused by oxidative stress and high wavelength light radiations. Furthermore, anthocyanosides and vitamins present in blackberries enhance the vision and protect the eyes from various diseases such as macular degeneration, cataract, and night blindness.