While they may not be as popular or as well-known as raspberries or blueberries, huckleberries are packed full of nutrients that provide many health benefits. These small berries are similar in size to blueberries, and are found in a range of hues, including dark red, purple, and blue. Wild huckleberries grow throughout the Northwestern United States. Scientific research on wild huckleberries has found them to be extremely rich in antioxidants, Vitamin C, Vitamin B, and potassium. This combination of nutrients may prevent a number of ailments, including heart disease, cancer, diabetes, and glaucoma. Wild Huckleberries are also thought to improve the functioning of the immune system, slow down the signs of aging, regulate the balance of water in the body, and boost the metabolism. Huckleberries are full of antioxidants, compounds that are essential for improving the health of numerous systems within the body, while also preventing the development of serious health issues. Recent studies have found huckleberries to have a high concentration of reservatol, a powerful anticancer agent. Antioxidants have also been shown to prevent the development of diabetes and heart disease. Antioxidants also protect cells against damage caused by free radicals. The protection can be seen both inside and outside the body; antioxidants are believed to slow the signs of skin aging, thus giving a person a younger looking appearance, and preventing wrinkles from forming. In addition, the nutrients found in wild huckleberries have been found to be helpful in treating common skin issues, such as eczema. Vitamin B, Vitamin C, and potassium are also abundant in huckleberries. Both Vitamin B and Vitamin C are essential to a healthy immune system, and a diet rich in these vitamins can aid in helping a person fight off illness and infections. High amounts of Vitamin B also boost the metabolism, and promoting the health of the hair and skin. Potassium is essential for numerous bodily functions, including the balance of water within the muscles and tissue. Each small wild huckleberry is full of these healthy nutrients, and they also have a very pleasing, sweet taste. Wild Huckleberries are delicious eaten on their own, thrown over granola or yogurt in smoothies or also you can make your jam, or pie an antioxidant rich treat. This is one type of health food that is easy to incorporate into any diet due to its incredible health benefits and delicious flavor. Sources Barney, D., Exon, J., Taruscio, T., “Content and Profile of Flavanoid and Phenolic Acid Compounds in Conjunction With the Antioxidant Capacity for a Variety of Northwest Vaccinium Berries,” Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry, vol. 52, no. 10, pp. 3169-3176, 2004. Becker, H. “Berries May Protect Against Cancer and Heart Disease,” United States Department of Agriculture, 2001.