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Black chokeberry (Aronia melanocarpa) is a crop that rightfully is called the food of the future. This small fruit has exceptional effects on human health – it protects against viruses and bacteria, slows aging and supports the body in fighting lifestyle diseases. Thanks to the high content of antioxidants and vitamins, aronia is often recommended as natural prevention as well as a support for treatment.
Why is aronia so exceptional?
The fruits of aronia contain a record amount of antioxidants that neutralize free radicals and thus protect cells from damage. According to studies, aronia has a higher antioxidant capacity than most berries and nuts. Because of this, it acts against premature aging, strengthens immunity and helps prevent the development of chronic diseases.
Aronia contains:
- vitamins C, E and the B group,
- folic acid,
- flavonoids and anthocyanins,
- trace minerals such as iron, zinc, manganese or magnesium.
It is precisely the anthocyanins that give the berries their dark color and at the same time strengthen blood vessels, reduce the risk of cancer and improve heart function.
Health effects of aronia
Regular consumption of aronia can have a positive impact on the whole body:
- Immune support – the high content of vitamin C and antioxidants helps the body resist infections.
- Heart and vessels – aronia lowers blood pressure, regulates cholesterol and protects blood vessel walls from hardening.
- Digestion and intestines – soothes cramps, reduces inflammation of the intestinal mucosa and helps with diarrhea.
- Liver and gallbladder – stimulates liver function, supports bile secretion and helps with gallbladder inflammation.
- Thyroid – has a beneficial effect in people with hypothyroidism.
- Detoxification – helps remove heavy metals and toxins from the body, which proved useful, for example, after the Chernobyl disaster.
- Slowing aging – thanks to antioxidants it protects DNA and cells from damage by free radicals.
How to use aronia
Aronia can be consumed fresh, dried, as tea, juice or syrup. It has the best effects if you include it in your diet regularly.
- The recommended dose is a handful of fresh berries daily.
- For aronia juice, 1 deciliter daily is enough, ideally on an empty stomach.
- With excessive use, aronia may have mildly laxative effects.
Aronia is also often used in weight-loss products because it helps maintain a stable weight and supports metabolism.
Aronia in history and traditional medicine
Aronia originates from North America, where Native American tribes used it as food and a medicinal agent. It reached Europe later and quickly gained popularity for its resilience and exceptional properties. After the Chernobyl accident, aronia was used to mitigate the effects of radiation and to this day is sought after as a means for detoxifying the body.
Summary
Aronia is rightly considered a superfruit of the future. Thanks to its high content of antioxidants, vitamins and minerals it supports immunity, protects the heart, liver and blood vessels and helps the body eliminate harmful substances. If you are looking for a natural way to strengthen your health and slow the aging process, include aronia in your diet – your body will thank you.
