Fruits and berries represent some of the healthiest foods that we can eat, especially during a prolonged crisis. Fortunately, some of the most-nutritious varieties are also easy to prepare, they are easy to find, and they tend to have a long shelf life. Let’s look at some of the most nutrient-rich fruits and berries around, and you can be able to incorporate them into your emergency stockpile as well.
Berries
Don’t let their small size fool you, because berries contain high concentrations of a wide-range of vitamins, minerals and other important compounds that are essential for our health and well-being. Blueberries, blackberries, acai berries and huckleberries are loaded with antioxidants, compounds that heal and support the circulatory system and help to regulate blood sugar. They can also help to keep blood pressure in check as well as remove toxins from the blood which can improve the oxygenation of cells. They are also known to help improve vision and protect the eyes. In fact, some studies suggest that eating high levels of berries can reverse eye diseases such as cataracts and macular degeneration.
Strawberries are loaded with phenols, which are important compounds that support the immune system and fight disease. They are also associated with improving liver and digestive health, and some studies indicate that strawberries can inhibit the growth of cancer cells. They also contain high levels of vitamins B, C, K, along with omega 3 fatty acids, folate, magnesium and fiber.
Cherries
A lot of people don’t give cherries the credit they deserve, yet they represent a superfood that should be a mainstay in your survival food supply. Cherries contain high levels of compounds that reduce inflammation, support joint, muscle and tissue health, and they can also help to support our sleep cycles. Cherries are also thought to promote skin health and regeneration, as well as assisting the body to repair and detoxify damaged cells.
Apples
An apple a day keeps the doctor away, right? Apples are by far one of the best foods that we can eat on a regular basis, and their nutritional benefits are too numerous to list here. Take our word for it: If you had to choose one fruit to keep in your stockpile, the apple should be first option to consider. Fortunately, there are many ways to process and store apples for the long-term, and you don’t need to eat a lot in order to load your body with essential nutrients.
Bananas
We’ve talked about the benefits of bananas before, but it’s worth repeating again. Bananas are famous for supporting heart health, strengthening the circulatory system, promoting good hydration at the cellular level and soothing muscle aches and pains. Bananas also contain fiber as well as a range of nutrients that support our immune system as well. While it’s not easy to can bananas, they can be dehydrated and vacuum-sealed for long-term storage.
Citrus
Finally, don’t overlook the benefits associated with eating citrus fruits, and it’s not difficult to can them for long-term storage as well. Grapefruit and lemon are the two most important citrus fruits to eat on a regular basis, and they are well-known for their disease-fighting, heart-healthy and immune-boosting properties. The best way to store them is by placing slices or chunks in water or very light syrup.
Fruits and berries represent foods that will be in short-supply during a crisis, so it’s important to build and maintain a good stockpile so they will be available when needed. Remember that our access to nutrients will be limited during a SHTF situation, and supplements only give us a fraction of what our bodies need to stay healthy. Take some time to explore how you can incorporate these and other superfoods into your food supply, and you will be in much better position to give your body what it needs to withstand the challenges and stress associated with living through difficult times.
