Do you know that there are only a few fruits in the world that hold the title of “Superfruit” given by the food experts and nutritionists? Maqui Berries is one of the lucky ones out of a few. Here is everything you need to know about this valuable gift of nature to us. Let’s get started!
What are Maqui Berries and where do they come from?
Maqui berry called Aristotelia chilensis grows wild in South America. Dark purple-colored, exotic fruit is native to Chile where it is grown by Mapuche Indians mainly who make use of the plant’s leaves, stem, and berries for medicinal purposes.
Due to its delicious and significant sweet and sour taste, exotic fruit is popular all over the world.
The superfruit is consumed in a variety of ways all around the world; as fresh fruit, in juice form, and even in powdered form (freeze-dried). The use of maqui berries as supplement mainly liquid extracts and capsules is quite popular.
Let’s delve into the details of this berry affair and know every detail of it that there is:
Benefits of Maqui Berries
We know you are already impressed by the superfruit and cannot wait to include it in your diet. But we want you to have a look at some nifty benefits of the exotic and delicious maqui berries. Let’s get started:
1. Rich in Antioxidants
Antioxidants protect against the damage caused by the free radical such as oxidative stress and certain diseases like arthritis, heart disease, cancer and diabetes. Good news is maqui berries are called a powerhouse of antioxidants. Out of strawberries, blueberries, blackberries, raspberries and maqui, maqui is the richest in antioxidants. The antioxidants present in Maqui berries are known as anthocyanins. They are not only responsible for the amazing benefits of Maqui but also give the rich deep purple colour to the berries. A study was carried out where participants were allowed to take 162mg of Maqui berry powder thrice a day for straight four weeks. At the end of the study, the experimental group had a significantly lower number of radical activity in their blood as compared to the control group.
2. Heart Friendly
The anthocyanins present in the Maqui berries are the antioxidants that have a direct link with the healthier heart. As per a study that included 93600 young and middle aged women, it was found that women who had diet richer in anthocyanins had a 32% reduced risk of heart disease. Another study was carried out which showed that people who included anthocyanins in their diet had a 12% reduction in their blood pressure numbers. Maqui berries have also been studied for their effect in lowering bad cholesterol in the blood.
3. Controlling Blood Sugar Levels
Many of you might already know the beneficial effect of Maqui berries as they moderate the blood sugar levels. A test tube study showed that intake of Maqui berries directly affects the way the body breaks down the carbs and utilizes them for energy. As part of a clinical trial, prediabetics were asked to include 180mg of Maqui berry extract in their diet for about three months. This Resulted in a 5% reduction in blood sugar levels. Maqui berries were proved to reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes in masses. Hence, that leaves no doubt in the anti-diabetic effect of the great Maqui berries.
4. Fighting Inflammation
Inflammation is the natural defense mechanism of the body against some injury or infection. Maqui berries help in this inflammation and also the one associated with certain conditions mainly heart disease, type 2 diabetes, lung disease as well as arthritis. The anti-inflammatory effect of Maqui berries has been proven by studies.
5. Improved Eye Health
Maqui berries have immense benefits for the eyes. A study was carried out in Tokyo including people who were experiencing dry and fatigued eyes as a result of their higher screen time. They were given 60mg of standardised berry extract orally for four weeks while continuing the screen time. It was seen that the individuals experienced lesser fatigue and dryness than before. Moreover there was an increase in the lacrimal fluid present in the eyes.
6. A Healthy Gut
As we all know that our gut is the resting place for a plethora of bacteria known as gut microbiome. They have a certain power over your entire body. Maintaining an efficient balance of prebiotic and probiotic is crucial for a healthy body. Studies have shown that intake of Maqui berries increases the number of good bacteria in the gut which is essential for a healthier gut. Moreover maqui berry compounds have the tendency to metabolize the anthocyanins and convert them into healthy bacteria. Now that is something called a real two in one function.
7. Anti Aging Effect
We are all exposed to UV rays constantly and that exposure leads to premature ageing of the skin which is a non-desirable situation for many. Maqui berry extract has shown to slow down the ageing signs and symptoms.
8. Healthier Lungs
Few studies have reported that anthocyanins in Maqui berry eliminate the effects of smoking in smokers however this effect needs to be studied further.
Side effects of Maqui Berries
Good news is that there is no as such side effect of this miraculous yet delicious berry as long as you are taking it in moderation. However, people with diabetes may have to consult their doctor as it may lead to hypoglycemia episodes owing to its antidiabetic effect if it is coupled with normal medication. Also, self-treating certain conditions with Maqui berry extract is also not advised.
Final verdict
Many of you must be happy to know that your favourite berry comes with this much health benefits. Now that you are fully aware of the benefits, it is the perfect time to incorporate it in your diet today and benefit yourself from the amazing Maqui berry benefits.
