Red, blue, purple, or black-no matter what the color or size, berries are wonder foods that are loaded with phytochemicals, antioxidants, and other vitamins and minerals that help prevent cancer and many other diseases. Cranberries and blueberries also contain a substance that may prevent bladder infections.

• Cranberries. High in vitamin C, B complex, A, and folic acid, cranberries help prevent bladder infections by keeping bacteria from clinging to the wall of the bladder. Cranberries help reduce asthma symptoms, diarrhea, fever, fluid retention, and skin disorders, as well as disorders of the kidney, urinary tract, and lungs. Cranberries also facilitate weight loss.

Fact

Eating a diet rich in blackberries, blueberries, raspberries, cranberries, and strawberries may help reduce your risk of several types of cancer. The blue color in blueberries comes from anthocyanins, phytochemicals that help protect your body from cancer. Blueberries and raspberries also contain lutein, which is important for healthy vision.

• Blueberries and blackberries. Both berries are packed with sapronins, which improve heart health, as well as disease-fighting antioxidants, vitamin C, minerals, and phytochemicals.

• Raspberries. Raspberries are packed with vitamin C and potassium, and are 64 calories per cup.

• Strawberries. Strawberries are packed with vitamin C, iron, calcium, magnesium, folate, and potassium-essential for immune-system function and for strong connective tissue. Strawberries also provide just 53 calories a cup.