Reducing oxidative stress, strengthening the immune system and other beneficial properties of the tender northern berry.
Cloudberry, whose orange “balls” are sometimes called “northern oranges” in Karelia, of course, is not in any botanical relationship with citrus fruits. Although it surpasses them in the content of vitamin C by four times, pickers and sellers of wild berries, who often meet on the way from St. Petersburg to Moscow in July and August, will not fail to inform you about this. In fact, cloudberries are the “Petersburg aunt” of the raspberries and blackberries we are used to. Therefore, it is also very effective against colds, has a pronounced antipyretic effect and relieves coughs. But the benefits of cloudberries don’t end there. If you eat it, then …
Your heart works better
Because cloudberries are a valuable source of ellagic acid, not only a powerful antioxidant, but also an excellent cardioprotector. Ellagic acid evens out blood pressure, reduces the risk of atherosclerosis by lowering “bad” cholesterol, and at the same time strengthens the walls of blood vessels and capillaries.
Your body removes liquid faster
If you have finally decided to appreciate the results of your work in the gym or just “dry out” before the vacation, try to include cloudberries in your diet. It not only gently stimulates the kidneys, but also supports the body due to the high content of vitamins and tocopherols.
Your immunity gets stronger
And it’s not just vitamin C (of which there is, of course, plenty in cloudberries). According to research carried out in 2005 by a group of Finnish scientists, cloudberry effectively suppresses the growth of pathogenic microbes in the intestines and strengthens intestinal immunity. And this, in turn, improves not only disease resistance, but also metabolism in general.
Your mood is better
Immediately – thanks to the light fruit sugars that cloudberries are rich in. And in the long term, thanks to the beneficial effects that berry polyphenols have on the liver. Yes, yes, there are a number of studies that have reliably established a link between liver health and a tendency to depression and a decrease in the general emotional background.
Your bones get stronger
Thanks to the good balance of potassium, magnesium, zinc and manganese in cloudberry, it is very beneficial for strengthening joints and bones. Perhaps one or two handfuls of berries per season will not affect the health of the musculoskeletal system, but regular consumption of cloudberries can seriously reduce the risk of osteoporosis.
The only drawback of cloudberries is their pronounced seasonality and regionalism: the berries are poorly stored and are difficult to transport. Fortunately for lovers of northern specialties, they: a) are often sold canned or dried; b) dry even healthier than fresh.
