Powerful Berry Antioxidants for Health!

Did you notice that berries are ripe, folks?

Berries are an incredibly healthy wild food that serves as a potent source of antioxidants. 

Huh? An antioxidant?

Yep! Antioxidants help stop the cellular damage cascade of free radicals. Think of it like this: A thief is running outside your house, stealing bricks from your home. Over time, those missing bricks lead to structural issues. Antioxidants provide a pile of extra bricks to appease the thief and to repair your home. 

Plus, berries are delicious! 

This month, I ventured into the woods to pick some huckleberries and salmonberries to make a shrub. A shrub is an infusion of vinegar, fruits and herbs. 

Here is a video showing you how I made my shrub: 

Here is the recipe: 

Ingredients:
-1 pound pitted, cleaned ripe fruit
-1 cup sugar
-1 cup vinegar 
-Herbs and spices of your choosing

1. Mash 1 cup of sugar into the fruit. Cover the mixture and store in a cool place for 1-2 days, until the fruit has broken down considerably. 
2. Add 1 cup of vinegar and herbs of your choosing. Stir into the mixture. Re-cover the mixture and let sit for 5-7 days. 
3. Strain the fruit remains and compost the fruit. Store the vinegar mixture in a clean jar in the fridge. The mixture should stay good for approximately 6 months. Use the vinegar as a base for salad dressings, over summer vegetables, as an addition to soda water or in fancy cocktails. 

Be well and Happy Berry Picking! 

-Dr. Lauren 

**Remember, nothing in this newsletter is meant to be taken as medical advice. Please consult a trained professional for your specific needs.**