Black currants are nutrient-dense berries known for their high levels of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. These small, dark berries offer a variety of health benefits that support overall well-being. A few of the benefits of eating black currant are:
1. Reduces Cancer Growth
One of the primary benefits of having black currant is that it might have an effect on reducing cancer growth. Some research shows that the high anthocyanin content in black currant is responsible for it. For example, a study shows that black currant successfully halts the growth of liver cells. Additionally, studies from other sources show a similar effect on the stomach and oesophagal cancer cells and breast and endometrial cancer cells.
2. Keeps Kidney Healthy
Black currants have anti-inflammatory properties and, coupled with antioxidants, can protect against chronic kidney disorders. Also, it protects your execratory system from infections and inflammations. In addition, consuming black currant can make your urine more alkaline and allows the discharge of excess oxalic acid and citric acid from the body.
3. Ensure Stomach Health
Black currants are a rich source of flavonoids. This is a type of phytochemical that allows muscle relaxation. Also, these fruits can relax contractions in the GI tract. Besides this, a few studies have shown that black currants have antispasmodic properties, and flavonoids such as quercetin and myricetin help prevent stomach and intestinal spasms.
4. Proven to Have Anti-inflammatory Effects
Inflammations can cause kidney, heart, and liver diseases. Additionally, it might also induce neurodegenerative disorders, urinary tract infections, and arthritis. As black currants have anti-inflammatory properties, they might reduce the severity and can also prevent such phenomena. This fruit is rich in anthocyanins and suppresses the immune system's activation of pro-inflammatory components.
5. Have Antimicrobial Properties
A few recent studies have reported the presence of antiviral properties in the leaves of wild black currant. This can be particularly useful for treating Influenza A viruses and its symptoms such as fever, muscle pain, headache, sore throat, and nasal inflammation. In addition, the essential oil from the leaves contains compounds like terpinolene, sabinene, caryophyllene, and ocimene, which have antibacterial and antifungal properties.
6. Lowers Cholesterol Level
There are also various benefits of dry black currant. For instance, it can help increase HDL cholesterol levels which are good for your health. Additionally, a few research found out that this fruit has anthocyanins which decrease LDL levels and total cholesterol in the body.
7. Treat Eye Disorders
The content of anthocyanins in black currants can help to keep the eye healthy. The anthocyanins molecules increase the blood flow in optical nerves and can help in good vision. Furthermore, regular consumption of this fruit can decelerate vision loss and comprehensively reduce allied symptoms.
Besides this, Anthocyanins are also believed to have a positive effect on the eyes too. Also, the active molecules go beyond the blood-retina barrier when consumed orally. Also, they reach various parts of ocular tissues to help them function properly.
8. Black Currant Benefits For Diabetes
Black currant contains delphinidin 3-glucoside, peonidin 3-rutinoside, and cyanidin 3-rutinoside, which may help improve insulin sensitivity. This fact particularly holds true for individuals with type 2 diabetes when consumed in required amounts.
9. Can Protect Your Brain
Black currants contain anti-inflammatory molecules that reduce neuroinflammation in the body. As a result of this, it improves cognitive and learning abilities. Also, it might help to keep memory healthy as well.
10. Nourishes and Repairs Skin
There are various skin diseases that arise due to inflammation, ageing and infections. In most cases, these skin problems make the skin dry, itchy, red, etc. One such example is Atopic dermatitis, which is seen in both adults and kids. However, studies have shown that the presence of polysaccharides in blackcurrants controls the inflammatory compounds and helps to keep skin problems at bay. Also, the seeds of black currants contain a considerable amount of fatty acids, such as linolenic acid, which subdues the inflammation mediators.
11. Keep Liver Healthy
The functionality of the liver might get affected by the regular consumption of alcoholic beverages. This can permanently change the liver's structure and cause detrimental effects, including triggering inflammation. So, to halt such detrimental effects consuming polyphenol-rich foods such as black currants is helpful. They protect the proteins and structural lipids of the liver to keep it healthy.
12. Rich in Vitamin C
Black currants are an excellent source of vitamin C, which boosts the immune system, helps collagen production, and enhances skin health. This vitamin also aids in wound healing and improves overall immune function.
13. Boosts Immune System
The high vitamin C content in black currant strengthens the immune system, making the body more efficient at fighting off infections and illnesses. It also contributes to better overall health.
14. Regulates Blood Sugar Levels
Black currants may help manage blood sugar levels, which is beneficial for people with diabetes or those at risk. They improve insulin sensitivity and can help control blood glucose levels.
15. Promotes Weight Loss
Black currants' fibre content can help with weight management by promoting feelings of fullness and reducing overall calorie intake. They are a healthy addition to a weight-loss diet.
16. Improves Joint Health
The anti-inflammatory properties of black currant can benefit joint health by reducing pain and inflammation associated with conditions like arthritis. They help in maintaining healthy joints and mobility.
17. Enhances Bone Health
Black currant contains essential minerals like calcium and magnesium, important for maintaining strong and healthy bones. They help prevent bone density loss and support skeletal health.
18. Supports Healthy Hair
Nutrients in black currant, including vitamins and antioxidants, promote healthy hair growth and prevent hair loss. They contribute to stronger, shinier hair and a healthy scalp.
19. Hormonal Balance
Black currant may help in balancing hormones due to their nutrient content. They support reproductive health and can alleviate symptoms related to hormonal imbalances.
20. Enhances Cognitive Function
The presence of antioxidants and vitamins in black currant can enhance cognitive abilities and protect against age-related decline. They support brain health and improve mental performance.