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& t i u Fr Factsants Veg edcurr R
The redcurrant (Ribes rubrum) is a member of the genus Ribes in the gooseberry family Grossulariaceae. The plant is native to parts of Western Europe (Belgium, France, Norway, Sweden, Germany, the Netherlands, northern Italy, northern Spain, Portugal and Poland). The tart flavour of the redcurrant fruit is slightly greater than the blackcurrant; however, they have the same approximate sweetness. Redcurrants are usually cultivated for jams and cooked preparations, but can be used for salads, garnishes, or drinks — plus they have health benefits too! The redcurrant has a lower glycaemic index value than many foods. This index ranks food and drinks based on their blood sugar increase potential. Foods high on the glycaemic index — like white rice and white bread — will break down easily and cause blood sugar and insulin level spikes after meals, which is followed by rapidly dropping blood sugar levels. The sugar from the redcurrant is slowly absorbed into the bloodstream, which prevents sugar crashes, sugar cravings and mood swings. One cup of redcurrants contains 77 percent of the vitamin C daily requirements. Vitamin C is a potent natural water-soluble antioxidant that helps the body develop resistance against infectious agents and eliminates cancer-causing free radicals in the body. Adequate vitamin C intake does not only improve and strengthen the immune system, but can also create and maintain collagen, an essential protein found in hair and skin. It also keeps the teeth and gums healthy and together with vitamin B, also helps with skin cell regeneration and promote healing from harmful UV ray damage.
One cup of redcurrants contains 10 percent of the mineral manganese, which is an essential factor in some enzymes important in antioxidant defences. The redcurrant can assist in red blood cell formation. Copper and iron are essential for the new blood cell formation. A deficiency of iron can lead to anaemia, fatigue and muscular weakness. Redcurrants are a good source of vitamin K, which functions in retaining calcium in the bone matrix. Sufficient vitamin K consumption may also reduce urinary excretion of calcium. One cup of redcurrants contains 15 percent of the daily recommended value of vitamin K. The redcurrant may help improve digestive health and fight constipation. The daily recommended dietary fibre intake for men and women is 38 grams and 25 grams respectively. Fibre helps prevent constipation, making your bowel movements easier to manage. It can also scrape cholesterol out of the arteries and blood vessels.