Health benefits of Haskaps
The health benefits of haskap berries have long been recognized in Japan where the indigenous Ainu people of Hokkaido refer to it as has “a bunch of little presents at the end of the branches”. It is thought of as 'the fruit of longevity’.
What are Haskap Berries used for?
One of the most exciting findings about Haskap berries is it has the highest Anthocyanin content of any fruit. Laboratory analysis also shows it's high in Vitamin C, Vitamin A, fiber and potassium.
ORAC value is a testable measurement of antioxidant quality of a product. Haskap tests very high in ORAC value. ORAC measurement specifically assesses Haskap to have:
• Overall Total ORAC Value - 13400 mmoles TE/100gms
• Specific Total Phenolics – 1014mg/100gms
• Specific Total Anthocyanins – 949mg/100gms
• Specific Total Bioflavanoids – 887mg/100mg
Haskap also contains the minerals: Calcium, Magnesium, Manganese, Iron, Zinc and Copper.
Because of its high concentration of antioxidants, Haskap can be used for many conditions and prevention of disease.
It's most commonly used for cardiovascular disease and prevention, cancer prevention and for anti-aging and vision.
How do Haskap Berries work?
How Haskap berries work is via its strong antioxidant content. Antioxidants are compounds which neutralize free-radicals which come from toxins, food, air pollution, chemicals, medications and from your body's production of waste. There are many types of antioxidants in nature, three of which are Phenolics (or polyphenols), Bioflavanoids and Anthocyanins.
In a comparative chart we see that Haskap has the highest content of total antioxidants than any common berry.
By neutralizing free radicals in your body you are preventing oxidative damage to your arteries, eyes, skin, liver and brain. This prevents the build up of arterial plaque in your arteries, prevents cataracts and retinal damage to your eyes, and the development of plaque in your brain. It also keeps your skin looking younger longer.
Preventing oxidative and free radical damage also helps keep your cells healthy because it prevents unhealthy cellular changes which can lead to cancer.
Source: https://www.nationalnutrition.ca/blogs/supplement-articles-haskap