Nordic countries fortunately still possess vast tracts of untouched nature. Since 86% of Finland is covered by forest, it’s been easy for Finns to enjoy berries as a rich source of vitamins for hundreds of years. With the advent of processed foods, the consumption of berries had decreased in recent years however, they’re making a comeback globally; so it’s important to understand just how nutritious they actually are. Here are are 5 Super Berries from Finland and what they can do for you!
1. Blackcurrants
Blackcurrants grow largely in Eurasia but are common in Finland. Out of all garden berries, it’s a key source of Vitamin C. It also contains a lot of Vitamin E and K. Blackcurrants are believed to protect against blood circulation infections, and to help with atopic skin conditions, PMS and diabetes. In Finland, they are usually made into jam and put into juices, as the berry’s taste is sour with a slight sweetness.
2. Sea Buckthorn berry
Sea Buckthorn berries help maintain skin health and are proven to lower the risk of stomach wounds and infection. They contain a lot of Vitamin C, E, some Vitamin A and carotenoids (plant pigments responsible for bright red, yellow and orange hues in many fruits and vegetables). Consuming a healthy dose of carotenoids helps lower the risk of cancer. The Sea Buckthorn berry has a crisp taste and is commonly blended into juices.
3. Lingonberry
If you suffer from inflammation, the lingonberry is nature’s cure. Additionally, they aid heart function, balance estrogen in women and assist in regulating body weight. Lingonberries contain antioxidants which protect cells from aging before their time. While researchers are still debating the full spectrum of health advantages offered by the lingonberry, they do all agree that they are certainly a beneficial addition to anyone’s diet.
4. Cloudberry
Containing a good amount of Vitamins A and C, cloudberries help support your immune system. Vitamin A increases the number of your white blood cells and works as an antioxidant, neutralizing harmful reactions within your body. Cloudberries have also been found to improve circulation, as they contain Omega 3 and 6 amino acids, which few other berries do. Cloudberries additionally help with heart-rate stability, cleanse your body, protect against harmful bacteria, decrease swelling and help keep osteoporosis at bay.
5. Cranberry
Cranberries grow mostly in northern parts of the world and are common in Finland. Like most berries, they also contain a lot of Vitamin C and since they have a thick skin, also offer a good source of fibre. Historically, raw cranberries and their juice have commonly been used as a potent medicine for fever, stomach ache and kidney/bladder infections.
Berries are nature’s powerhouses and can certainly help to prevent disease as part of a regular diet. Consequently, doctors suggest that people consume them regularly and long term in some form or other to derive the maximum benefits and get the most out of them. Next time you stroll through the supermarket, thinking where to get the best nutrition bomb for your day, head for the berry section at the fresh food aisle , or head to the freezers for the frozen versions – you’ll be surprised at how well you feel after a few weeks’ of eating a handful of berries per day! Got a story about berries or a recipe, let us know below or @keepfitkingdom!
