Spring is finally in the air and one of the things to get most excited about is fresh spring berries. Time to get your ready for some seasonal Berry shopping that’s great for your health.

Don’t forget if you bought too many berries, you can always make a quick freezer jam by sprinkling a little bit of sugar on sliced overripe berries. Freeze half cup portions of the mixture in zip lock bags. When you’re ready to use your freezer jam, you can thaw out a bag and smear the berries on whole grain toast. They’re also great when spooned over plain, nonfat Greek yogurt. What a tasty breakfast (or dessert)!

Berries are Packed with Nutrients:

• Did you know that blueberries have 26% of your daily value (DV) of manganese in a single cup? They’re also loaded with vitamin C, vitamin K, and fiber!
• Speaking of vitamin C, blackberries have tons of it — 50% DV in a one cup serving, along with 47% DV manganese, 36% DV vitamin K, 31% DV fiber, and even 12% DV copper. That’s all in a 62-calorie package!
• That same amount of raspberries has lots of fiber, packed into only 64 calories. Plus, raspberries contain antioxidants, which are linked to disease prevention.

Berry Trivia:

• Blueberries are related to cranberries, azaleas, and even rhododendrons!
• 95% of commercial blueberries are grown in North America.
• Blackberries are native to North America and still grow wild in many areas.
• Blackberries and raspberries are aggregate fruits.
• Raspberries can be red, yellow, orange, purple, or even black! Their dominant color affects what vitamins and other nutrients can be found in the berries.
• According to the study, Raspberries and Human Health: A Review, “Red raspberries are a common and important fruit in the Western diet due to their content of essential nutrients and beneficial phytochemicals.”

If you ask us, Berries pair great inside our smoothies. Especially when added to our 21-DAY SMOOTHIE DIET KIT!

Check out this bonus recipe!

Frozen Fruit Silk

Total Time: 5 min | Prep: 5 min | Cook: 0 min

This delicious dessert is a protein powerhouse!

Ingredients:

10 ounces frozen raspberries in syrup or frozen strawberries in syrup
12-1/2 ounces silken tofu

Directions:

Chop or break the still-frozen berries into smaller chunks and put them into a blender.
Add the tofu and purée until smooth.

Serve immediately.

Chef’s Tips:
Mix it up with different kinds of fruit! Try frozen pineapples, mangoes, peaches, or a berry medley.

DISCLAIMER: These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. The information is for informational purposes and is not intended to treat, diagnose or cure any illness. Consult a physician before taking any action.