Berry Exotic: Alternative Therapies

Exotic berries are beginning to be investigated for their preventative properties such as antioxidants, anti-inflammatory, and hypocholesterolaemic levels. Berries consisting of these factors have been shown to reduce the risk for cardiovascular complications, acute or chronic diseases and other metabolic disease processes. These natural remedies are used to create a more holistic approach to medicine. The question raised is if the natural antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties that acaí, maqui, and blackthorn berries produce are more effective, less effective, or have no effect compared to medications that can be used. Research shows that reduction of glucose, total cholesterol and low density lipoprotein (LDL) from these berries have a positive effect on cardiovascular health, reduction of disease and reduction of risk for diabetes in overweight persons. After initial studies, the benefits prove to be worth using the acaí berry in moderation in addition to a healthy lifestyle. This paper will investigate the properties that make up exotic berries, such as the acaí berry, and their effects on specific body systems to determine the benefits of supplementation compared to other antioxidant rich berries and multivitamins.Kayla SiddellHonors DiplomaHonors CollegeCunningham Memorial Library, Terre Haute, Indiana State UniversityUndergraduateTitle from document title page. Document formatted into pages: 20