The Triple Point
July 15, 2021 - The day we reached the “triple point”.
In thermodynamics, the triple point is known as the precise temperature and pressure in which a substance coexists simultaneously as a solid, liquid, and gas. While it would be fun to take a deep dive into thermodynamics, I’d much rather talk about food.
In terms of berrypicking, we’ve reached the sweet spot when strawberries, wild blueberries, and wild raspberries are all ripe and ready for the picking in the Keweenaw. This state of equilibrium is short and sweet as the window lasts days, or at most, up to a week.
Berries contain many bioactive compounds that are beneficial for health including phenolic acids, flavonoids (like anthocyanins), tannins, and ascorbic acid (Vitamin C). “These compounds, either individually or combined, are responsible for various health benefits of berries, such as prevention of inflammation disorders, cardiovascular diseases, or protective effects to lower the risk of various cancers.”
Contrary to popular belief, berries are a great option for anyone looking to improve their glycemic control. Berries are classified as low glycemic index, which means there is a blunted blood sugar response after consumption compared to other higher glycemic index fruits. Various studies have examined the impact of berries on blood sugar control and insulin sensitivity. A recent clinical trial utilizing strawberry polyphenols demonstrated an improvement in insulin sensitivity in overweight + obese adults w/o DM 2 compared to placebo.
It’s time to get out there and savor the triple point!
Source:
1) Skrovankova S, Sumczynski D, Mlcek J, Jurikova T, Sochor J. Bioactive Compounds and Antioxidant Activity in Different Types of Berries. Int J Mol Sci. 2015 Oct 16;16(10):24673-706. doi: 10.3390/ijms161024673. PMID: 26501271
2) Paquette M, Medina Larqué AS, Weisnagel SJ, Desjardins Y, Marois J, Pilon G, Dudonné S, Marette A, Jacques H. Strawberry and cranberry polyphenols improve insulin sensitivity in insulin-resistant, non-diabetic adults: a parallel, double-blind, controlled and randomised clinical trial. Br J Nutr. 2017 Feb;117(4):519-531. doi: 10.1017/S0007114517000393. Epub 2017 Mar 14. PMID: 28290272