Aronia berry, also known as chokeberry, is one of those petite fruits that just burst with vitamins, minerals, phytochemicals, and nutrients.
First transported to Europe in the middle of the 18th century, the plant is resistant to pests and low temperatures. The only conditions it requires are humidity and bits of sunlight. This unpretentious, but gorgeously beautiful and very healthy, plant possesses copious amounts of molybdenum, iodine, and manganese.
The (dark purple to black) berries can be consumed whole, in jams (see pic below) or processed in smoothies. Their taste is a bit acerb, but if you are a fan of any kind of berries, probably you would like these too.
When tasting raw chokeberries, you will have a feeling of astringency or dry mouth which is due to the chemicals tannins. This astringent taste is sensed especially in the front and the middle parts of your tongue.
Health Benefits of Aronia Berry
Chokeberries are termed nature’s healer for several reasons:
- The berries are believed to enhance blood circulation and diminish the risk of heart attacks owing that to their cardioprotective properties.
- Due to the abundant amounts of vitamins, chokeberries are a great boost to the immune system.
- Several studies have been analysing the effects of chokeberries on the treatment of diabetes. They argue that the consumption of Aronia juice might help control and prevent diabetes.
- If you are suffering from “dancing” blood pressure levels (especially hypertension), these dark pigmented Aronia berries are trusted to maintain the balance.
- Aronia juice has an anti-inflammatory value and protective properties due to its anthocyanin. This could also have a beneficial effect on the prevention of atherosclerosis since vascular inflammation is one of the causes of the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis.
- Due to big quantities of carotene, chokeberries serve very well for the healthy functioning of the eyes.
- Aronia berries are an important ally for regulation of the weight. They assiduously fight against overweight and obesity.
- And lastly but most importantly, chokeberries, among all other fruits and berries, boast the highest concentration of antioxidants, which neutralise free radicals and act as an armour against the harmful effects of oxidation.
Before I conclude, here’s a great idea for a healthy smoothie.
A Quick Smoothie Recipe
For 2 servings:
- 1 handful of Aronia berries;
- 2 bananas;
- 100 g soaked nuts (oats, almonds, hazelnuts, sunflower seeds, Brazil nuts – or mixed);
- 2 cm (1 inch) of fresh ginger (or a teaspoon of powdered ginger);
- 2 soup spoons coconut milk (optional);
- 1 soup spoon carob powder or cocoa;
- Any kind of sweetener – honey, date syrup, agave syrup;
- Water.
Have you tried Aronia berries? How do you consume it?
Fred
It is worth noting as well that aronia is recommended for Athletes. Aronia has strong anti-inflammatory effects on muscles, which helps recovery post workout.
Last, aronia may be acerb indeed, but not always. Berries sourced further south where generous sunshine gives more naturally occurring sugars within the fruits are tastier and richer.
I recommend consuming aronia berries in frozen form or pure juice, as opposed to dry.
Svet
Hey, Fred, thanks very much for these great insights. I also find it a bit acerb when raw/dry but generally very rich in flavour when consumed frozen or in juice.
I checked your website. I believe I have tried your amazing juice too! Thanks for commenting 🙂
eostories
От известно време искам да опитам, но във възможно по-чист и натурален вид от изкуствените сокове. Би ли споделил ти откъде ги купуваш?
Svet
Ами, тези си ги взех от Балкана. Често си купувам от пазара на Младост 1 – там има всякакви бери-та 🙂 В биомагазините има много готини, концентрирани сокчета от арония 🙂
Nina Alexander
I had no idea these tiny fruits are so healthy! I wish I liked their taste 🙁
Svet
They are indeed super healthy. Well, combine them with yoghurt and it may be better 😉