There are many types of fruit, and virtually all of them contribute to our health if eaten regularly. After all, fruit contains vitamins and also fibre. And many other important ingredients. One of the richest sources of antioxidants beneficial for health are chokeberries.

These dark berries are healthy, but they are definitely not for everyone. I know for a fact that they would not be successful with my children. They are too acidic. And sour fruit doesn’t go down well in my house. Not fresh, not in a pie, not in any other way. “It’s sweet,” says my young daughter, grinning. She means sour. Aronia would probably make her smile. Aronia is simply not for everyone. Some love it and others hate it with all their hearts.

Aronia berries

Native to North America, but grown everywhere, even in Europe. In the past, Americans used them as a cure for colds. Since the berries have a drying effect in the mouth, they are mainly used to make juices, purees, jams, jellies, teas or syrups. And also wines. They can be bought fresh, frozen, dried or in powdered form.

Berries are considered a great source of micronutrients and have antioxidant properties. They contain a lot of vitamin C, polyphenols, anthocyanins and proanthocyanidins. Aronia provides a lot of health benefits. It fights free radicals and besides health, it also has an effect on well-being. Aronia has an effect on the immune system, but also on brain health or cardiovascular function. To put it bluntly, it’s practically a natural panacea.

━━ ( Source: Kat von Wood /  Unsplash+ )

Effect on the intestines

Aronia is high in polyphenols and tannins. It is the tannins that make this fruit acidic. It can even have an astringent effect. People with a sensitive digestive tract could have problems after eating it. Aronia can aggravate dry mouth and slow down bowel function. On the other hand, it provides fibre. And that helps with regular bowel movements. The effect of aronia depends on the dose and also on how accustomed your body is to higher levels of fiber. If your body is not used to it and you take a larger amount at once, your gut may start to protest.

Dried fruits

People are also fond of buying dried fruits. As well as dried bananas, plums or peaches, you can buy dried chokeberries. The advantage is that it is durable and easy to store in this state. But you have to take into account a more concentrated taste. This means that the acidity can be higher than with fresh fruit. This is similar to freeze-dried raspberries. These are also quite acidic. However, dried fruits are great in porridge or yoghurt, for example. Alternatively, they can also be used in meat sauces. Sounds strange, doesn’t it? But a sauce with fruit can be unexpectedly good. Personally, I’m tempted to try it.

Try it with aronia

You haven’t eaten this fruit yet, but you want to try it? If you like tart raspberries, currants or similar fruits, you’ll probably like it. Either way, I recommend starting with small portions. Want to give your gut a boost? Then skip the next high-fiber meal and drink plenty of water. Yes, fiber is important, but too much is too much. That’s also true in this case. Dried chokeberry is also great, but before you try it on its own, add it to your food. Or make a tea out of it. There’s nothing easier. Just cover the dried fruit with hot water and simmer.