1. Aronia or black berry (chokeberry): small but mighty
Margarita recalled she had started consuming aronia some 30 years ago when a woman living nearby told her, “If you want to maintain young blood vessels, eat this berry regularly.”
Once she included these small but mighty berries in her diet, she started experience changes almost immediately. The heaviness in her head was gone, and her hands were never cold ever again, not even during the cold winter days. Also, this helped her stabile her blood pressure, so she was never subscribed any medications for this condition, unlike most people her age.
According to a study published in the Jou l of Fu cti onal Fo ds, “Diets rich in red berries have been linked to a lower risk of chronic diseases such as type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and cardiovascular disease (CVD), while also offering preventive effects against serious diseases including cancer.”
Aronia berries are rich in antioxidants, such as polyphenols, flavonoids (such as carotenes, lutein, anthocyanin, about 1,480 mg per 100 grams of fresh berries), and proanthocyanidins (664 mg per 100 grams), according to Medicine Net. They are also source of vitamins and essential nutrients, such as vitamin C, A, and E, beta-carotene, folate, and minerals (such as potassium, iron, and manganese). 100 grams of fresh aronia berries contain 35 percent of daily recommended levels of vitamin C.
Aronia berries help in reducing inflammation and combat oxidative stress. They can be added into unsweetened compotes, oatmeal, and other simple dishes.
One simple recipe Margarita shares includes a handful of dried aronia berries soaked in hot water. They should be left like that for a couple of hours after which the infusion can be consumed. Margarita advises on half a cup a day.
2. Willowherb Tea: Calming for the Nervous System
Willowherb tea was once a staple in many households, and being part of an older generation herself, Margarita started consuming it decades ago, and she hasn’t stopped ever since. The reason why is because it offers a plethora of health benefits. She says she consumes it in the afternoon or in the evening, but it has definitely became an important part of her daily rituals.
Since she started consuming willowherb tea, Margarita says it helps her calm her nerves, especially after a long day. Also, it helps her sleep better and not wake up during the night. According to Margarita, the tea facilitates the process of digestion, especially after a heavier meal, and helps fight inflammation. What’s more, it eliminates water retention, so she rarely feels bloated.
So, how does she prepare it? One teaspoon of the dried herb is mixed with 300 milliliters of hot water, which is then covered and left to steep for ten to fifteen minutes. It is best consumed when it is warm, particularly after meals or in the evening.
Unlike coffee or black tea, willowherb tea doesn’t overstimulate the body and doesn’t cause addiction.
According to Vita rary this tea helps with urinary tract discomfort, supports prostate health, and helps with inflamed skin. Willowherb boasts an impressive lineup of active compounds, including flavonoids, tannins, and mucilage.
3. Buckwheat: Stable Energy and Balanced Sugar
If there is one thing that has remained a constant in Margarita’s diet, then that’s buckwheat.
Buckwheat is not only inexpensive, but also simple and nutrient-rich. Margarita says that it was around the age of 40 something that she started feeling her body reacted differently to the food she had been consuming until then. All of a sudden, her blood sugar levels started going up and down, and she felt tired most of the time, especially after a meal. So, she just knew she needed to make change, and she started with the bread which she then replaced with buckwheat.
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