An apple a day might keep the doctor away, but wait until you see what New Zealand blackcurrants can do! Loaded with vitamins and antioxidants, these powerhouse berries – which are available here in Singapore from Unity pharmacies and FairPrice – can do wonders when it comes to supporting your health and wellness. Here are six health benefits of blackcurrants and the reasons why this superfood supplement can be a worthy addition to your family’s diet.
#1 Immune system
In countries where blackcurrants are native, they were mainstays in the diets of older generations. The berries were commonly used to ward off coughs and colds. In addition to vitamin C, blackcurrants contain some of the highest levels of anthocyanins; this powerful antioxidant has been proven to have anti-inflammatory, anti-viral and anti-cancer effects on the body.
New Zealand blackcurrants, in particular, are said to have the highest level of antioxidants and anthocyanins. This is because the country’s pristine environment and strong UV light intensify the berry’s natural goodness.
So, where can you get your hands on this super-fruit? The tart, dark purple berries can be consumed in different forms such as juice drinks, jams and dried fruit. The easiest way to ensure it’s in your diet daily, though, is by taking a simple supplement. Vitality New Zealand’s Immune Health supplement combines the benefits of New Zealand blackcurrants and zinc to fortify the immune system.
#2 Brain health
Struggling with mental clarity some days? You’re not alone! Whether we’re experiencing “mum brain” or a proper burnout, we can all use some support when it comes to brain function. Blackcurrants can help; high levels of the key brain nutrient cyclic Glycine-Proline (cGP) are naturally found in blackcurrants from New Zealand. This nutrient is produced with less frequency as the brain ages, and very low levels are linked to neurodegenerative disorders.
By supplying the brain with this nutrient, blackcurrants support healthier cognitive function, faster mental processing, higher energy levels, and can even delay the onset of brain ageing.
Vitality New Zealand’s Brain Shield is considered the world’s first and only dietary supplement to safely deliver cGP to the human body. People of all ages who regularly used the supplement reported positive changes in their daily lives, from better sleep to improved memory.
#3 Growth and development
Blackcurrant seed oil is very rich in essential fatty acids, and provides the perfect balance of Omega-3, 6 and 9 – all of which play a vital role in brain function, and in the growth and development of the body. Needless to say, children and adults alike can greatly benefit from a daily dose of these.
Vitality New Zealand’s award-winning Omega Health has the unique combination of all three Omegas. This means it delivers more health benefits than a standard fish-based Omega-3, which only delivers one essential fatty acid.
Being 100 percent natural, Omega Health can be consumed by both kids and adults. The 500mg soft-gel capsule suits all ages, including anyone who has trouble swallowing the common 1,000mg capsule. Taking two 500mg capsules per day will fulfil your Omega-3 requirement; it’ll also provide additional essential fatty acids that may be deficient in your diet.
According to Vitality New Zealand, Omega Health has been proven to benefit rheumatoid arthritis, help atopic dermatitis in newborns, lessen wrinkles, and relieve premenstrual pain (PMS), menopausal fluctuations and bloating. Taken regularly, the supplement can ease the symptoms of depression, helping to stabilise and brighten moods. It can also help maintain the health of your skin, hair and nails, too – a nice bonus!
#4 Eye health
With bright screens and a huge dependence on digital devices comes eye strain, visual fatigue and dry eyes. While there’s no substitute for simply reducing screen time, blackcurrants have been shown to minimise damage inflicted on the retinas.
If you’re looking to support your eyes, Vitality New Zealand’s concentrated blackcurrant Eye Health can help minimise the risk of harmful effects of UV rays or blue-light, and aid blood flow to the eyes. Its high level of antioxidants works to strengthen the eye’s defences against cataracts and degenerative eye conditions.
#5 Gut health
Our gut health plays a key role in our digestion, immune functions and brain-gut signalling. It can impact everything from stress levels, emotions and mental health to physical wellbeing. An imbalance of “good” bacteria in our gut is associated with a range of medical problems; these include diabetes, heart disease, food allergies and inflammatory bowel conditions.
Packed with prebiotics and other health-boosting nutrients, New Zealand blackcurrants have been shown to increase the amount of healthy bacteria in our gut and also soothe stomach discomfort.
What’s more, Vitality New Zealand points to evidence that prebiotics and probiotics can help lower levels of anxiety, depression and stress. The brand’s Digestive Health supplement is a prebiotic that delivers antioxidants, anthocyanins and other essential nutrients that support a healthy digestive system, good bacteria and probiotics. But, in addition to improved digestion, the supplement also supports pleasant moods by encouraging the secretion of serotonin and dopamine!
#6 Muscle and joint inflammation
The blackcurrant berry contains high levels of anthocyanin and other antioxidants, known to relieve inflammation and support muscle recovery. So, consuming blackcurrants can be helpful to those suffering from joint or muscle pain, stiffness and soreness.
Vitality New Zealand’s Active Health is scientifically designed to support blood flow and help relieve muscle inflammation – especially after intensive and general exercise. In fact, taking one capsule 30 minutes before exercising has been shown to provide quicker, smoother recovery periods after physical activity. This can mean improved performance overall!
Find out more
Vitality New Zealand aims to bring the benefits of the blackcurrant berries to the world by providing a naturally grown, scientifically proven product that can support health and wellness. There are seven supplements to choose from, each one plant-based and gluten-free.
To learn more about New Zealand blackcurrants, and to find the best supplement for you, visit vitalitynz.sg.
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Amy Greenburg
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