The Amazing Benefits of Mulberries
We have heard of the popular berries such as strawberries, raspberries, blueberries, and blackberries. But there are many other berries such as gooseberry, mulberries which are equally tasty and healthy. They are related to figs and breadfruit. Mulberry trees are conventionally grown as food. Mulberry leaves are the only things silkworms eat. You will find many mulberry trees in Asia and North America. The berries are colorful and you can find black, red, and white mulberries easily. These are used in various dishes and drinks. Mulberries have many nutritional benefits and taste really good and sweet. You can find mulberries in wine, jam, fruit juice, tea, desserts, or as a dried snack. Mulberries are very versatile and can be had as a snack by itself. They also have many benefits for our health and body.
Mulberries are consumed dry like raisins. They contain 70% carbs, 14% fiber, 12% protein, and 3% fat. Their nutritional makeup is considerably high and they are definitely higher in protein than other berries. Fresh mulberries have only 60 calories per cup or 60 calories per 140 grams. The carbs in mulberries are mostly fructose and glucose but may contain some starch and fiber. Mulberries have a significant amount of fiber in them. The fibers in Mulberries are soluble and insoluble. Fibers help you digest food easily, clear your digestive system, and decrease your cholesterol levels. Mulberries have high water content, about 88% water. The combination of high nutrition and low-calorie count makes it an ideal snack for weight loss.
Mulberries are packed with vitamins and minerals. Vitamin C and iron are especially high in mulberries. Vitamin C is one of the essential vitamins for our body, skin, and health. Iron plays a vital role in various bodily functions, such as transporting oxygen throughout your body. You can also find potassium in mulberries. Potassium lowers blood pressure and reduces risk of heart disease. Mulberries contain antioxidants such as Vitamin E which fight oxidative damage and stress. Other vitamins such as Vitamin K1, which promote bone health are also present in Mulberries.
Lowers Cholesterol- Elevated cholesterol levels are associated with increased heart disease or risk of lifestyle disease. Cholesterol is an important fatty molecule present in every cell of your body. Research has shown that mulberries and mulberry extract can reduce excess fat and lower cholesterol levels. It can also improve the ratio between HDL (good) and LDL (bad) cholesterol levels. Mulberries have the ability to reduce the formation of fat in the liver which can prevent fatty liver disease.
Reduces Risk of Cancer- Increased stress and pressure on our bodies and health can cause diseases like heart disease, diabetes, and cancer. Oxidative damage in cells and tissues leads to causing cancer. Mulberries have been traditional used in medical remedies in China. These remedies were intended for cancer patients. Research has now found scientific evidence backing the efficiency of these remedies. The antioxidants in mulberries or mulberry juice can reduce oxidative stress.
Manage Blood Sugar Levels- People with diabetes have to be careful about their diet and the foods they consume. They are at a risk of a rapid rise in blood sugar so need to consume carbs in moderation. Mulberries contain a compound that can inhibit an enzyme in your gut that breaks down carbs. Mulberries effectively slow down the increase in blood sugar after meals.
Mulberries contain many plant compounds that fight disease and improve our general health. Anthocyanins, which give mulberries their rich color, are able to inhibit oxidation of LDL (bad) cholesterol. This allows your body to fight and prevent heart disease. Cyanidin is the main anthocyanin in mulberries is responsible for the dark, red colors in mulberries. Rutin, another compound is a powerful antioxidant that protects our bodies against cancer and chronic diseases.
Before adding mulberries to your diet, consult a health expert or nutritionist. Some people may be allergic to mulberries. If you have an allergy to birch pollen, then it is smart to avoid mulberries and other berries. However, for most people, there are no adverse side effects to consuming mulberries or berries. You can use mulberries in yogurt, cereal, salads, jams, smoothies, juices, teas, jams, or desserts. The sweet, fruity taste of mulberries is unique and flavorful. Fresh mulberries can be found in stores and dried at home or you can purchase dried mulberries directly. Mulberry tea is often had by people to end their day and relax. They are an amazing sweet replacement and can be used as candy. People who wish to lose weight or cut down on sugar often consume mulberries or dried mulberries as candy. They have been used in traditional Chinese medicinal remedies for centuries, emphasizing their importance and effectiveness. Research still needs to be done about many other benefits but no one can deny that Mulberries are a great fruit for your health and body.