The Benefits Of Maqui Berry
Maqui berries are also known as Chilean Wineberry or Aristotelia chilensis, they are a species of native tree in Chile that is laden with these dark purple berries. Let’s Talk about the benefits of Maqui berries
According to the ORAC (oxygen radical absorbance capacity) value, there are 37,174 antioxidants in every 100 grams of fresh maqui berry. It boasts high levels of antioxidants, earning it the title of “superfruit.”People worldwide acknowledge it as one of the most antioxidant-rich foods available
People mostly use berries for food and dietary supplements due to their color and high anthocyanin content. People often use the plant for weight loss as it is edible
Some persons dry the Maqui berries before turning them into jam, juice, an astringent, or adding them as ingredients in processed drinks and dishes.
Some people consume it specifically in whole and juice form, but now it is also available in various nutritional supplements such as powders and capsules.
In this article, we will look into the health benefits of Maqui berries, and their nutritional value and we will also answer some frequently asked questions.
So keep scrolling!
See also The Benefits Of Blueberries and The Healthiest Berries To Consume.
Nutritional Value Chart
Here is a nutritional value chart of a Maqui berry:
Potassium | 763mg |
Protein | 5,15g |
Calcium | 255mg |
Carbohydrates | 74,97g |
Vitamin E | 751 IU |
Vitamin C | 2,553g |
Sodium | 24mg |
Saturated Fat | 1,09g |
Water | 9,55g |
Iron | 7,7mg |
Calories | 389 |
Dietary Fibers | 46,30g |
Total Fat | 7,63g |
Total Sugar | 24,23g |
8 Health Benefits of Maqui Berries
The Maqui berry offers many health benefits, 8 of which are listed below:
Promotes Better Skin
Antioxidant-rich fruits and vegetables are excellent for protecting the skin against aging-related damage and other disorders, possibly including skin cancer. We have already mentioned that Maqui berries, packed with antioxidants, effectively solve various skin problems
Maqui berries have been found in studies to replenish healthy skin cells. By inhibiting the enzymes that break down collagen, the ellagic acid they contain may even prevent skin damage from harmful UV rays. This means that despite exposure to the sun, maqui berries might aid in keeping skin supple and elastic.
Additionally, the maqui berry encourages skin cell regeneration and lessens skin inflammation due to its high antioxidant content. Because of this, many skincare businesses include maqui berries in their skin-softening and anti-aging products.
Improves Eye Health
During the day, different light sources such as the sun, fluorescent lighting, computer monitors, cell phones, and televisions expose your eyes.
Maqui berry extract may lessen the harm that light can do to your eyes. A study found that the antioxidants found in these berries help your eyes against light-related damage.
Further, a study found that persons with dry eyes who took 60 mg of MB extract daily for 60 days saw a significant reduction in symptoms. This led the researchers to believe that this may be the cause.
After two months of supplementation, Maqui berry enhanced tear production, lessening dry eyes’ irritation. Because maqui can combat oxidative stress, which can harm eye glands, researchers think it aids in restoring average ocular fluid production.
But again, this is one of the benefits that has lesser evidence to prove its impact. Thus, it may benefit some people but may not prove effective for others, so do not solely rely on Maqui berries to solve the eye problems mentioned above.
Rich in Antioxidants
Over time, free radicals that are unstable molecules can harm cells and result in inflammatory reactions and disease. In such cases consuming foods like maqui berries, which are high in antioxidants, is one approach to stop these effects.
Different light sources, such as the sun, fluorescent lighting, computer monitors, cell phones, and televisions, expose your eyes throughout the day.
It was found that people who consumed 162 mg of a maqui berry extract three times per day during four-week clinical research had considerably lower blood levels of free radical damage than the control group.
High antioxidant intake can help lower the chance of developing chronic diseases such as osteoporosis, arthritis, lung cancer, stroke, colorectal and other types of cancer.
Surprisingly, the maqui berry is reported to have nearly three times as many antioxidants as other berries.
Fights inflammation
Maqui berries may be effective in treating inflammatory diseases like heart disease, arthritis, type 2 diabetes, and some lung problems, according to research.
There are high levels of antioxidants in Maqui berries as mentioned. High quantities of delphinidin and anthocyanin produce strong anti-inflammatory effects that may alleviate pain for a person
This is fantastic news for those with joint discomfort, arthritis, or other inflammatory diseases.
Delphinol, a concentrated maqui berry supplement, has been shown in test tubes to reduce inflammation in blood vessels, making it a possible ally in the prevention of heart disease.
In addition, a two-week clinical investigation found that smokers who took 2 grams of maqui berry extract twice a day experienced a significant decline in lung inflammation measurements.
Can Lower Sugar levels
Maqui berries can help balance out the sugar levels in your blood. Maqui berries contain antioxidant delphinidins that better manage it.
In a three-month clinical trial, 180 mg of maqui berry extract once daily decreased usual blood sugar levels by 5% in participants with prediabetes. Although this 5% drop may not seem like much, it was sufficient to lower participants’ blood sugar levels to normal.
The maqui berry could be beneficial for the person at risk for type 2 diabetes, but you should consult a doctor before including it in your diet for diabetes treatment. In addition, you may need to regularly check your blood sugar levels if you combine a maqui berry extract with diabetes treatments.
Consult a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement
Also, this benefit of Maqui Berries is not well researched yes hence there is still insufficient evidence to prove how much the intake of Maqui berries can affect your blood sugar levels.
Prevents Chronic Diseases
The maqui berry’s anti-inflammatory qualities support heart health and reduce blood pressure. Combating chronic diseases like cancer, osteoporosis, coronary heart disease, and stroke also entails reducing inflammation.
Maqui berries are abundant in anthocyanins, strong antioxidants that have been associated with a healthier heart
In comparison to diets poor in these antioxidants, the Nurses Health Study of 93,600 young and middle-aged women revealed that diets high in anthocyanins were related to a 32% lower risk of heart attacks.
Potent antioxidants found in maqui berries may lower blood levels of “bad” LDL cholesterol and lower your chance of developing heart disease.
Boosts Immunity
Due to their high Vitamin C content, maqui berries are renowned for supporting the health of our immune systems. Like strawberries and blueberries, a lot of berries are high in vitamin C.
The Maqui berry is similar to other berries in this respect. This small berry also contains significant amounts of vitamin C, which supports the immune system’s ability to fight off disease.
So it can assist in building a stronger immune system making sure you fight infections and threats of diseases
Better Gut Health
The billions of bacteria, viruses, and fungi that live in your intestines are collectively referred to as your gut microbiome. Gut microbiota is crucial for immunological function, metabolism, and digestion. It has an impact on the bacteria in your intestines.
Maqui berries can potentially reshape unwanted bacteria while also influencing the growth of healthy bacteria in your body.
A diversified gut microbiome can benefit your immune system, brain, heart, and, of course, your gut, despite the fact that this may sound scary.
However, problems might occur when harmful germs outnumber helpful ones.
It’s interesting to note that research suggests plant chemicals found in maqui and other berries may help alter your gut microbiota and boost the population of healthy bacteria.
These advantageous bacteria use the plant chemicals that they consume to develop and multiply.
Beware of Allergies
Maqui berry allergies are uncommon. It is best to proceed cautiously, though, if you have previously experienced responses to berries like blackberries, blueberries, and raspberries.
Check the label of any supplements you buy to see if there are any other substances to which you may be allergic.
Remember that factories produce a variety of items including wheat, dairy, seafood, almonds, and other foods.
Bonus Recipe
Wondering how to incorporate these berries into your diet, while also enjoying something delicious? Worry not we have you covered.
Here’s the recipe for Wild Maqui Berry Smoothie Bowl
Ingredients
- 1 cup frozen cauliflower
- 1 cup frozen blueberries
- 1 cup unsweetened vanilla milk
- 1 tablespoon coconut/almond butter
- 2 tablespoons of wild maqui berry powder
You could add any toppings such as Gogi berries, chia seeds or any fresh fruits based on your preference.
Procedure
- In a powerful blender, combine the ingredients in the order specified and blend until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- If you want a thinner texture, add additional almond milk.
- Serve in a bowl and top with your preferred garnishes.
There you have yourself a healthy and nutritious dish at your disposal. Make sure to enjoy this healthy bowl!
FAQs
What Do Maqui Berries Taste Like?
Many individuals claim that the berries taste something like blackberries.
Maqui berries. have a lot of seeds within, however, they are smaller than blackberries. Before using, people dry and crush the berries, then they consume them either raw or cooked.
What are the ways to add them to your diet?
You can incorporate Maqui berries into your diet by blending the powder or juice into water or adding it to smoothies, oats, yogurt, healthy baked products, and sweets.
Use the powder in the same ways as acai, like in granola bowls.
How Many Maqui Berries Should be Consumed?
Consume maqui berries as a fruit in moderation, it’s considered safe. However, further research is necessary to determine the safety of consuming large quantities or taking maqui berry supplements.” It is always best to consult with a healthcare
Despite the potential advantages of maqui and associated supplements, it’s crucial to remember that self-treating a health condition with maqui while eschewing traditional care could have major negative effects. “Avoid using maqui berry supplements during pregnancy and breastfeeding, as limited research is available on its safety in these situations.”. it’s always to err on the side of caution and consult with a healthcare provider before taking any new supplement.
Related Articles:
- Boysenberry Nutrition and Health Benefits
- Cranberry Cornbread
- Cranberry BBQ Sauce
- Cranberry Blueberry Sauce
Bottom Line
You may not have known what Maqui berries are but now that you do, try to benefit from them as much as possible.
These berries are some of the best available in the market with innumerable benefits. And like they say there is not much that can go wrong with nature so eat as much natural food in the form of fruits and vegetables as you can. And the best part is that not only are these berries healthy, but they are also sweet and tasty which means that they will also satiate your sweet cravings.
It might be challenging to get fresh maqui berries, maqui berry powder is widely available and adds health benefits to a variety of foods, including smoothies, yogurt, oatmeal, and desserts.
So happy Maqui berry eating to you!
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My name is Claude I am from RWANDA in East Africa ,I learn great things in this article