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BERRIES... |
BERRIES... |
BERRIES !! |
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Berries are among the most health friendly foods which can be eaten. The compounds that give ripe berries their beautiful colors are the substances that have strong anti-oxidant powers. Anti-oxidants are compounds that help repair some of the damage that happens to our bodies cells every day. The darker the berry, the more health benefits it has. The dark pigments in the berries seem to give protection against heart disease, degenerative eye disease and may offer some help in preventing some cancers and bladder infections. This anti-oxidant protection is there whether they are fresh, frozen or dried. Oxygen Radical Absorbance Capacity (ORAC Value) is a measurement of the anti-oxidant levels in foods. Blueberries are among fruits and vegetables with the highest anti-oxidant levels with an ORAC value of 5486. Next in line is is the Blackberry with a value of 4654, Strawberries at a value of 3520 and Raspberries at 2789. Berry ORAC values top that of many other fruits and vegetables including; oranges, cherries, brussell sprouts, Spinach, broccoli, plums and grapefruit. With this being so, it's also part of the reason why Bark Berry Pets uses only the highest quality berry flours and oils, and when available, fresh berries! The other part of the reason is because...........dogs love them!!
Some of the berries used in Bark Berry Pets products: Blueberries: Are a tonic to the digestion. Very potent anti-oxidant. They can help to destroy infectious organisms and can be beneficial to the eyes. Anthocyanins, the blue red pigments found in blueberries are found to enhance the effects of vitamin C, improves capillary integrity and stabilize the collagen matrix ( the ground substance of all body tissues) Strawberries: A potent anti-oxidant. Helps protect cell structure in the body and to prevent oxygen damage in all of the body's organ systems. Strawberry's unique phenol content makes them a heart-protective fruit, an anti-cancer fruit and an anti-inflammatory fruit all rolled into one Blackberries: High in vitamin C and fiber, both known to help reduce the risks of certain cancers. They are high in anti-oxidants and contain ellagic acid, a phenolic compound shown to have anti-carcinogen, anti-viral, and anti-bacterial properties. They are low in calories, carbohydrates and contain no fat. Raspberries: Help prevent unmanted damage to cell membranes and other body structures by neutralizing free radicals. May have cancer protective properties. Have the potential to inhibit cancer cell proliferation and tumor formation in various parts of the body, including the colon. Raspberries possess almost 50% higher anti-oxidant activity than strawberries. Raspberries are an excellent source of manganese and vitamin C, a good source of riboflavin, folate, niacin, magnesium, potassium and copper. A strong B Vitamin content and excellent source of dietary fiber. Cranberries: A unique cranberry juice component has the ability to reverse and inhibit certain oral bacteria responsible for dental plaque and periodontal disease. They are a very potent anti-oxidant: assists in the fight against cancer as well as being a well known powerful urinary tract cleanser. Goji Berries: Contain unique polysaccharides which fortify the immune system. Goji berries have 19 amino acids - the building blocks of protein - including all 8 that are essential for life. 21 trace minerals, including germanium, which is a trace mineral rarely found in foods. Goji contains more protein than whole wheat. Has a complete spectrum of anti-oxidant carotenoids, including beta carotene ( a better source than carrots) and Zeaxanthin, which supports the eyes. B-complex vitamins necessary for converting food into energy. Vitamin E, rarely found in fruit products, Essential fatty acids and Betaine which is used by the liver to produce choline. The Goji Berry is so highly regarded, it has it's own poem! The Goji Well A cool well beside the monks house A clear spring feeds the well and the water has great powers Emerald green leaves grow on the wall The deep red berries shine like copper The flourishing branch like a walking stick The old root in a dogs shape signals good fortune The Goji nourishes body and spirit Drink of the well and enjoy long life -Tand Dynasty Poet Liu Yux (772-842AD) CONTACT US: info@barkberrypets.com |