April of 2021: In America, we are more familiar with raisins made from dried grapes. School children in the UK snack on the much-tarter dried blackcurrants (one word) which are botanically different from that of grapes (the latter in the genus Vitus and the former in genus Ribes for blackcurrants).
The phytonutrients (or health-related plant-based substances) found in grape raisins, most notably boron, do not stack up to those in blackcurrants.
Reported Health Benefits of Blackcurrants
I learned from Dr. Michael Lange, Optometric Physician and Founder of the Fortifeye Nutrition Centers, that taking a daily capsule of powdered blackcurrants helps in alleviating symptoms of dry eye. It seems to help my own condition which led me to dig deeper into the topic of blackcurrants as part of this year’s Immunity Series.
Some of the health benefits from consuming blackcurrants identified by WebMD include:
- Improved Eye Health: The phytonutrients in blackcurrants may help to improve dry eye, symptoms of eye fatigue from lengthy viewing of screens, and may help slow the progression of glaucoma.
- Reduced Inflammation: Blackcurrants, rich in an omega-6 fatty acid or gamma-linoleic acid, can lessen joint pain and stiffness.
- Immunity: Blackcurrants are high in antioxidants, including Vitamin C. The antioxidants can help to boost the immunity system, allowing the body to more effectively fight infection and viruses.
All of the 2021 Pow-Ahh Immunity Series can be found here.
Sharing AHA! Discoveries
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