By Irene Hayton

Now that summer is here, fresh berries—strawberries, raspberries, blueberries, blackberries, etc.—are in season. These low-calorie nutritious treats contain fiber, minerals, and vitamin C; ounce for ounce, strawberries have more vitamin C than citrus fruits.

Berries are rich in disease-fighting phytochemicals and antioxidants, which boost immunity, slow down the aging process, and protect against chronic disease. Among the fruits studied to measure antioxidant levels, blackberries, blueberries, and cranberries rank the highest. Another bonus is that berries have low glycemic ratings. So go ahead and enjoy them while they’re in season! See this month’s recipe for Strawberry Purée.