Saskatoon Berry Nutrition

NUTRITION AND HEALTH BENEFITS OF SASKATOON BERRIES

  • Saskatoons contain high levels of antioxidants thought to act as a protective guard to our immune system
  • Laboratory 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 consumption 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

  • 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

 

*reference: https://www.researchgate.net/publication/257814045_Flavonoid_Profile_of_Saskatoon_Berries_Amelanchier_alnifolia_Nutt_and_Their_Health_Promoting_Effects