Healthy Breakfasts: Berries
All fruits and vegetables contain antioxidants, but nutrient-rich berries are some of the absolute best choices. There are powerful antioxidants found in berries, including Vitamin C, may help:
- Prevent and manage arthritis
- Slow age-related memory-loss
- Decrease inflammation in joints of people with rheumatoid arthritis
- Reduce the risk of cataracts and macular degeneration
- Make skin more radiant
- Make hair more healthy
Berries also contain fiber and folate. Fiber aids in weight loss and helps lower cholesterol and blood pressure. Folate may protect against cardiovascular disease and age-related memory loss, and since folate contributes to the production of serotonin, it may also help avoid depression and improve one’s mood.
Remember, if fresh berries cannot be found, frozen (unsweetened) berries are a great substitute during the off-season months — and just as nutritious! Delicious serving ideas include:
- Adding berries to a bowl of warm oatmeal during breakfast.
- Putting berries on top of pancake batter as it cooks for berry delicious pancakes.
- Drizzling chocolate to cover strawberries as a romantic snack for couples.
- Stirring fresh raspberries into Greek yogurt to amplify its deliciousness.
- Combining frozen berries with bananas and low-fat milk to make an afternoon smoothie for guests.
Offering berries to your guests is a healthy and delicious way to fuel their bodies. Guests love the taste of berries and innkeepers love their smiles and return visits! Be sure to put pictures of your breakfasts on social media! People can “like” your posts on Facebook, “re-tweet” your tweets on Twitter, and pin your pictures on Pinterest!
Image by Marcus Berg of Unique Angles Photography