Never Underestimate the Power of Berries

Some children seem to have a never ending appetite. In many cases, they technically do. The metabolism of the young is usually in high gear as they can burn their energy reserves quite rapidly. However, this isn't always the case as many children are conditioned to be more lethargic while allowing fatty foods to do what it does best. If your child has a sweet tooth, fruits and berries can be a healthy snack that can help retard the development of obesity.

Antioxidants - Many berries are loaded with high levels of antioxidants. These molecules greatly assist in the development of the immune system as well as preventing various forms of cancer. By eating more berries, your children are introducing a compound to their bodies that can help prevent the cellular damage that is caused by free radicals racing through the cardiovascular system. It is believed that diseases such as Alzheimer's can be prevented by including more berries in your child's diet now.

Vitamin K - Some berries include high levels of vitamin K which assists in developing the proteins the child consumes. This vitamin also promotes metabolic pathways for the development of bones and various other tissues. Although your child won't have an indestructible skeletal structure from eating more berries, this food product can help protect against various breaks and fractures.

Healthier Skin - Eating more berries can help in the tightening of the skin. This allows a person to have a healthier epidermis and can assist in prevention of acne. However, puberty will still play a contributing factor in various skin conditions when your child is in his or her teens. Adding berries as a snack can also help in the prevention of skin cancer and improved healing through coagulation and skin cell regeneration.

Brain Food - The vitamin compounds in berries are also conducive to helping higher brain function. Aside from the antioxidant levels that are present, specific vitamins and minerals help the brain stay alert and improve concentration. While your child won't turn into Einstein after eating a handful of berries, prolonged exposure to these nutrients could be seen in school work throughout the year.

High Levels of Fiber - Did you know that one cup of raspberries has more fiber than a bran muffin? Fiber is beneficial for a number of reasons including: promotion of a healthier heart, weight loss control, irritable bowels, kidney stone prevention and overall skin health. It can also assist in breaking down sugars in order to control the body's blood sugar level.

Vitamin C - Everyone knows that oranges are the popular form of vitamin C. In fact, many supplements of the vitamin are orange flavored. However, berries can provide a great deal of this immune system building block. One cup of strawberries can provide your child with 150% of the daily value of vitamin C. Nearly all berries have this compound in varying levels, but all of them promote healthier snacking in various other ways.

Instead of letting your children snack on a chocolate bar or a cupcake after school, why not hand them a cup of various berries? Not only can these fruits sooth the sweet tooth, but it could very well be the healthiest snack he or she has eaten all day. Introduce the sweet alternative to your family and see for yourself how berries can be beneficial over time.

Always curious, Ashley Hardway is constantly learning and passionate about sharing what she learns with others. Based in Houston, Texas, she loves to help families grow stronger, help their environments and communities, and keep moving forward! Check out @NannyLady on Twitter to connect and find out more.