Chokeberry

Chokeberry, a fruit belonging to the Rosaceae family, and is native to eastern North America and most commonly found in wet woods and swamps. The berries can be eaten raw off the bush but are more frequently processed. Chokeberries can be found in wine, jam, syrup, juice, soft spreads, tea, salsa, extracts, beer, ice cream, gummies and tinctures. There are two types of chokeberries, namely: red and black berries.

 

The red berries are a bit sweeter than the darker variety. The black berries are about the size of blueberries and a bit darker in colour, while the red aronia berries are a bit smaller. The active constituents in the chokeberry are a mixture of procyanidins, anythocyanins and phenolic acids, all widely known as powerful antioxidants.

 

In comparison with a cranberry, the chokeberry contains more than five times the amount of flavonoids and anthocyanins. It is these compounds that are responsible for chokeberry’s effects on neutralizing free radicals and reducing oxidative damage.

 

Chokeberries are low in calories and fats. 100 g of fresh berries contain 47 calories. Nonetheless, they are one of the nature's richest sources of flavonoid anthocyanin antioxidants. In addition, the berries contain handsome levels of minerals, and vitamins, and dietary fiber obtained through their peel.

 

Chokeberry is rich in antioxidants and phyto-nutrients which are important for eye health. Due to its high ORAC value it protects the eyes from oxidative stress. Thus it nourishes the eye and protect from external factors like UV rays or pollution. Also it improves eye vision.

 

Chokeberry is also effective to increase immunity. Chokeberry is rich in Vitamin C which increases immunity to fight common disease like cold or flu.

Due to the lack of scientific support for chokeberry's health benefits, it's too soon to recommend chokeberry supplements for any health condition, consult your physician before starting your supplement regimen.

 

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