Mulberries More than meets the eye

Mulberries are full of nutrients and powerful antioxidants, and they taste delicious and sweet. They are thought to have originated in China and are found throughout the world.

[Image1 Fresh, juicy, sweet mulberries… delicious!]

There are many varieties of mulberries that are dark purple when ripe and have the ability to turn your hands a spectacular purple! There are also white varieties that combat purple fingers but are not as sweet or good to cook with.

Mulberry trees provide great shade and the leaves are the food source of silkworms.

[Image2 Mulberries hang from deciduous trees in temperate climates]

Health benefits of mulberries
Mulberries contain about 10% of your daily fibre intake, which aids in digestion and lowering cholesterol. They are good for heart health and reducing the risk of strokes.

Surprisingly, mulberries also contain a high iron concentration, that promotes the production of red blood cells and increases circulation and metabolism.

These berries are also full of folate, vitamin C, vitamin K, potassium and calcium.

Interestingly, mulberries have a number of phytonutrients including zeaxanthin, lutein and beta- and alpha-carotene, the pro-vitamin A carotenoids that help with vision. Resveratrol is present, most well known for its antioxidant characteristics in dark skinned grapes and wine, and preventing the oxidative actions of free radicals.

Mulberries also have high levels of vitamin E and with the vitamin A carotenoid components aid with skin, hair and nail health. They are said to make your hair shiny.

What are they used for
Mulberries are a versatile berry and can be eaten fresh, dried or frozen.

They can be added to breakfast cereals or used in muffins, pies, crumbles, teas, ice-creams, sorbet, jams, sauces, jelly, wines and cordials.

To make a simple mulberry sauce to pour on meats, salads or desserts:

[Image3 Making a mulberry sauce]

There is a lot to like about these berries and don't worry, the purple eventually comes off!

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#nutrition
#healthy_foods

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