Berries: The Original Sweet Treats

July is a wonderful time to celebrate all things berry, and is known as National Berry Month. Not only are berries delicious, but they are packed full of nutrients such as potassium, fiber and phytochemicals (components in plants that have antioxidant properties that may help prevent inflammation).

Berries are also low in calories and are naturally sweet, making them a great alternative to high-calorie desserts and treats. Berries require little effort to prepare, just wash and eat! Fresh or frozen berries can be added to your morning cereal or oatmeal, added into your favorite baked goods, included in fresh salads, added to yogurt, or blended into smoothies.

Make National Berry Month fun and nutritious by incorporating more berries into your diet. In Kansas City, we have several U-Pick farms to enjoy. Make it a family outing and then make this blueberry soup together.

Chilled Blueberry Soup

Ingredients:

• 2 cups fresh blueberries
• 1 cup 100% apple juice
• 1 and ½ cups plain low-fat yogurt
• 1 Tbsp. Honey
• ¼ tsp. cinnamon
• Fresh mint leaves for garnish

Directions:

1. Rinse blueberries and set aside a few for garnishing.
2. Blend all ingredients in food processor or blender.
3. Garnish with mint leaves and blueberries, if desired.
4. Serve immediately.

Looking to incorporate a new variety of fruits into the mix? Expand your produce prowess by treating your taste buds to some of these peculiar picks. Find them at local grocery stores and farmers markets.

  More articles

Sydney Juergens

Sydney has worked as a Clinical Dietitian for NKCH since January 2016. She is the inpatient/outpatient Oncology Dietitian. Sydney graduated from Northwest Missouri State University and completed her Dietetic Internship through Iowa State University. In her free time she enjoys spending time outside, being physically active, and renovating her house.