Dried Inca berries are loaded with fiber and are fat-free, making them great for your eyesight and skin. These little berries are packed with vitamins, minerals, polyphenols (which are organic compounds), and a wealth of nutrients. Renowned for their high antioxidant content, dried Inca berries help maintain your vitamin C levels, combat free radicals, and may even help fend off certain cancers. Similar to raisins and dried cranberries, these berries have a unique flavor, grow in the Peruvian mountains, and are often celebrated as a “superfood.”
For centuries, people have used dried Inca berries in traditional medicine, particularly for treating jaundice. Some cultures even see them as a mild diuretic, helping to improve fluid balance. Whether you’re aiming to lose weight or just enhance your diet, there are many good reasons to try Inca berries.
These berries are quite versatile. You can balance their tartness with sweet ingredients or highlight their superfood qualities to encourage a healthier diet. Whether fresh or dried, they’re nutrient-rich. A four-ounce serving of these superfruits is packed with Vitamin A and Vitamin C, which can boost your immune system and overall body function, helping you stay healthy during the cold and flu season.
Inside dried Inca berries are compounds called withanolides, which might have anti-inflammatory effects that protect against colon cancer. Inflammation is the root cause of many issues like muscle stiffness, fatigue, and asthma, and these berries can help reduce it. Their polyphenols and other antioxidants also support conditions like asthma by calming inflammation in the respiratory system.
One of the standout features of these berries is their withanolide content, which acts as an adaptogen, helping your body manage stress better. This can reduce anxiety and irritability, improving emotional well-being over time.
Fiber in these berries aids digestion. The pectin fiber helps soothe the digestive tract and prevents constipation, acting as an effective laxative. They’re also packed with potassium and magnesium, which reduce acidity and help detoxify the body, potentially preventing conditions like arthritis, gout, and kidney stones.
Rich in iron and B-Complex vitamins, dried Inca berries can help with anemia. The copper they contain supports the production of red blood cells. These berries are also abundant in polyphenolic phytonutrients, antioxidants that contribute to eye health by reducing free radical damage and protecting against issues like cataracts and muscular degeneration.
These golden fruits are excellent detoxifiers. Their rich array of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants nourish the liver and kidneys, crucial for eliminating toxins and keeping you feeling vibrant. Dried Inca berries contain oleanolic acid, which protects dental health by preventing decay and cavities, while their calcium content helps maintain strong teeth.
Packed with antioxidants like polyphenols and carotenoids, these berries protect skin cells from damage and speed up skin repair, preventing sagging and enhancing skin health. These compounds also help regulate blood pressure and improve heart health by managing bad cholesterol levels.
Known for their tangy blend of sweet and sour flavors, Inca berries can add a zesty touch to meals, protein balls, or serve as a tasty snack. They’re low in calories—only about 50 calories per 100g—making them a great snack choice for a balanced diet.
With only around 74 calories per cup (140 grams), mostly from carbs, and 6 grams of fiber, they are good for energy without the risk of weight gain. Their ability to influence blood sugar levels also makes them a good option for managing diabetes.
Dried Inca berries have a strong taste and chewy texture, which some might find challenging alone. However, they easily pair with oatmeal, yogurt, and other healthy snacks. Offering plenty of nutrients with few calories, they fit well into a nutritious lifestyle without contributing to fat retention.
