By 
Maqui berry, also known as Chilean Wineberry, is a tree species native to Chile, known for its dark purple berries. Traditionally consumed as fresh fruit or juice, it is now commonly available in the form of freeze-dried powder made from the whole fruit.
Two teaspoons of organic maqui berry powder contain approximately 20 calories, 4 grams of carbs, and no fat or protein. The carbohydrates are primarily derived from fiber, making this fruit an excellent addition to a diet plan. It is also rich in essential nutrients like potassium, vitamins A, C, B1, B3, folate, and more.
Given its nutrient profile, maqui berry offers a range of health benefits. Here are seven of the most notable:
1. Combat Free Radicals
Maqui berries are packed with antioxidants, particularly anthocyanins, which help neutralize free radicals. These antioxidants protect cells from oxidative stress, damage, and inflammation, potentially reducing the risk of cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, and cancer.
2. Reduce Cardiovascular Disease Risk
The anthocyanins in maqui berries not only combat free radicals but also help prevent cardiovascular diseases. Their extracts have been shown to reduce inflammation in human aortic endothelial cells, which may lower the risk of heart attacks.
3. Aid in Blood Sugar Control
Rich in delphinol, maqui berry extracts can help lower blood glucose levels in individuals with prediabetes. Consuming 180 mg of maqui berry extract daily has been shown to reduce blood glucose levels by 5%.
4. Fight Inflammation
Maqui berries possess strong anti-inflammatory properties due to their phenolic content, including anthocyanins, flavonoids, and organic acids. These compounds help combat inflammatory disorders such as heart disease, diabetes, and arthritis, and they can also reduce oxidative stress in the lungs.
5. Lower Cancer Risk
The anthocyanins, flavonoids, and organic acids found in maqui berries have been shown to inhibit the growth of colon cancer cells. A study published in the Journal of Berry Research highlighted the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects of maqui berry extracts against human colon cancer cells.
6. Strengthen the Immune System
The high vitamin C content in maqui berries supports immune system function, helping the body ward off illnesses more effectively.
7. Promote Healthy Skin
Maqui berries contribute to healthy skin by nourishing skin cells and protecting against damage. The ellagic acid in maqui berries helps prevent the breakdown of collagen, while the high levels of antioxidants promote skin cell regeneration and reduce inflammation.
Additional Benefits
Maqui berries also support eye health by protecting against light-induced retinal damage and enhance brain function by improving blood circulation to the brain, thanks to their potassium content.
You can consume maqui berries in various forms, including juices, supplement powders, and as an ingredient in desserts, oatmeal, smoothies, or yogurt. Consult with your doctor before adding them to your diet to ensure they suit your health needs.
For those interested in other berries, consider exploring the health benefits of golden berries and blueberries.
