Health Benefits

Blackcurrants

Black currants, or Ribes nigrum, are grown abundantly in northern and central Europe and northern Asia. Although there have historically been large acreages of black currants grown in North America, commercial cultivation was made illegal in 1911 in response to the lumber industry’s claim that a virus, White Pine Blister Rust, which attacks pine trees, needs currant bushes to complete its cycle. Recently, rust resistant varieties of currants and White Pine have been developed, making it possible for farmers to begin commercial production of the berry again. Nevertheless, black currant production is still limited in North America.

Black currants have exceptional nutritional value. The berries are renowned for containing a phytochemical called anthocyanins, which have been shown to have potential anti-aging, anti-inflammatory and cancer fighting properties. Black currants contain exceptionally high levels of antioxidants, which help to protect the brain, and have been shown to slow the progression of Alzheimer’s. The berries are an excellent source of vitamin C, which can help boost immunity to diseases and eliminate free radicals from the body; vitamin A and beta carotene, which contribute to the health of the skin and eyes; as well as vitamin B6, vitamin E, potassium, copper, magnesium, calcium, manganese and phosphorous, all of which are essential for healthy metabolism.

Blueberries

A lover of acid soil, blueberry bushes are well suited to our Island’s red soil. They are low in saturated fat, cholesterol and sodium and are an excellent source of dietary fibre and rich in vitamins A, C, E and beta-carotene as well as the minerals potassium, manganese, magnesium. Blueberries are also rich with health-protecting antioxidants, those valuable elements which prevent cancer-causing cell damage.

Raspberries

Raspberries are members of the rose family. Each berry is composed of many connecting drupelets (individual sections of fruit, each with its own seed) surrounding a central core. The seeds provide insoluble fiber along with pectin to help control cholesterol. Raspberries are a good source of lutein which lowers the risk of cataracts and macular degeneration. Raspberries are also rich in vitamin C, folate, iron and potassium.

Rhubarb

Rhubard is a very old plant containing tannins, which are believed to reduce inflammation in the colon and to be useful in the treatment of diarrhea. Rhubarb is very low in saturated fat, cholesterol and sodium. It is championed as a way of reducing cholesterol levels and losing weight, with 100 grams providing only seven calories.

It is an excellent source of potassium, and a rich source of dietary fiber, vitamin C, vitamin K, calcium, magnesium and manganese.

Strawberries

Strawberries contain high amounts of vitamin C. Eight strawberries provide 140 percent of the recommended daily intake of vitamin C. They are a good source of folate and potassium, and a very good source of dietary fiber, vitamin C and manganese.

The strawberry is the only fruit with the seeds on the outside of the fruit. One cup of strawberries contains just 55 calories.

Cranberries

Cranberries grow very well on Prince Edward Island, and are an excellent source of many important nutrients. The berries are known to reduce urinary tract infections, gum disease and stomach ulcers; prevent the formation of kidney stones, lower cholesterol levels, and aid in stroke recovery. They are well known for their anti-inflammatory properties, and as an excellent source of vitamin C. Cranberries also contain high levels of antioxidants which may help prevent heart disease and cancer.

Haskap Berries

Haskap berries, or Lonicera caerulea are native to Russia, Northern Japan and Canada. The berries come ripe earlier than most other berries, making them a good early season treat! They taste like a cross between a raspberry and a blueberry, and have a long history of medicinal uses from treating high blood pressure and cardiovascular disease to improving intestinal problems and treating malaria. The berries are also a great source of vitamin C and antioxidants. The plants can survive very cold temperatures in the winter, making them an ideal crop for Prince Edward Island!

Dandelion

Dandelion, or Taraxacum officinale in Latin, is a perennial herb that is native to the northern hemisphere. Although many people today have come to perceive it as a weed that invades lawns and agricultural fields, dandelion’s medicinal properties have been known and used for centuries in diverse cultures all over the world.

Dandelion root is an excellent source of vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin D and vitamin B complex, all of which have antioxidant properties, as well as potassium, zinc and iron. Dandelion is frequently used to treat digestive disorders such as loss of appetite and indigestion, and as a liver tonic, its diuretic effect facilitating the removal of toxins and reducing liquid retention. Due to its high iron and zinc content, dandelion root is often used to treat anaemia. Its high vitamin B complex content has been cited as a potential mood stabilizer for those suffering from depression. Traditionally, dandelion has also been used to cure breast illnesses, aching joints, and skin conditions. Its high nutrient content makes dandelion a good supplement for pregnant and menopausal women.

There are numerous ongoing studies that are exploring additional health benefits of the dandelion. These include the potential use of dandelion to treat vaginal yeast infections; decrease glucose levels; inhibit tumour growth; and maintain brain function.

Soybeans

Soybeans are a complete source of protein, and contain many vitamins and minerals that are essential to maintaining optimum health. They are a rich source of folate, vitamin B3, B6, vitamin E, magnesium, potassium, iron, copper, phosphorous and manganese, and contain considerable amounts of alpha-linolenic acid and omega-6 fatty acid. Soybeans contain phyto-oestrogens, which can help to reduce the symptoms of menopause, lower the risk of osteoporosis, breast, prostate, and colon cancer. Being high in fibre and low in saturated and trans-fats, soybeans can also help lower cholesterol levels and may reduce the risk of heart disease.

http://www.annecollins.com/diet_foods/soybeans.htm

Canola

In recent years a great deal of research has been done on ways to reduce obesity, heart disease and diabetes through maintaining a healthy diet. A certain amount of fat in our diets is essential for good nutrition, but certain fats are healthier than others. Canola oil is an excellent source of monosaturated fat, which may reduce the risk of coronary heart disease by lowering cholesterol and help to control blood glucose; and essential fatty acids like omega-3, which helps to protect us from heart attacks and strokes, and omega-6, which is important for healthy brain function and the development of infants. In addition to these health benefits, canola oil is the lowest in saturated fat (which can raise cholesterol and has been linked to an increased risk of coronary heart disease) of any common edible oil (7%). Canola oil contains no trans-fats.

http://www.canolainfo.org

Flax

Flax oil is known as one of the richest sources of omega-3 fatty acids, which are necessary for practically all body functions. Flax also contains high levels of omega-6 and omega-9, as well as potassium, magnesium, B vitamins, zinc and fiber. Flax contains high levels of lignan, which has been shown to reduce various forms of cancer and to balance our hormonal imbalances. Flax also helps to prevent high blood pressure and heart disease; reduces inflammation in the joints and water retention; improves liver functioning and eyesight; accelerates healing; and increases overall energy levels.

Mustard

Mustard oil, pressed from mustard seed, is an excellent source of omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids. The oil lowers blood pressure, thus protecting against heart disease. The oil also contains high amounts of vitamin E, which promotes healthy skin and improves the body’s immunity. Omega-3 fatty acids also improve brain functioning, and are often used to treat depression.