Berry Christmas in July
By Cal Orey, M.A.
(Tahoe Daily Tribune, July 3 newspaper)
As the
legend goes, the Native Americans believed that the little, vibrant-colored
blueberries were sent by the Great Spirit during a great famine to relieve the
hunger of their children. Indians knew blueberries were healthful, so they
believed they were a miracle berry that was a godsend to mankind—one of the
first superfoods but without the “super” label.
While
there is no new study in 2026 touting berries the absolute healthiest food on
Earth, the consensus among health experts is that berries are one of the
most nutrient-dense, disease-fighting foods available to humans. Research in
my book, The Healing Powers of Superfoods, reveals that eating colorful berries
(such as blueberries, strawberries, raspberries, and blackberries) is healthy
from head to toe.
For both
tourists and locals visiting the Lake Tahoe region during the summer, adding
berries to a daily diet is a super way to boost immunity, hydration, and mental
wellbeing while enjoying the natural environment. Here’s four ways to get
your berries in Tahoe:
- Visit Local Farmers Markets: Tahoe hosts several
seasonal farmers markets around the lake. These berries are rich in
vitamin C, which is vital for immune support, especially when traveling
and to beat summer colds and viruses. [Don't forget raw honey to pair with berries for an anti-bacterial, anti-viral, and anti-inflammatory boost!]
- Forage for Wild Berries: The Sierra Nevada
mountains are home to wild varieties like thimbleberries and
huckleberries. Foraging is a popular activity for locals and adventurous
tourists, offering a low-cal snack that helps maintain energy levels
during hiking.
- Enjoy High-Altitude
Breakfasts: Many
local cafes in Tahoe offer fresh berry bowls or smoothies. Since our high
altitude can up oxidative stress (eating berries helps your body by
providing "helper" molecules called antioxidants that neutralize
the "bad" molecules, preventing them from making your cells feel
worn out). Blueberries and blackberries are ideal after a walk or swim.
- Buy from Grocery Stores: Stocking up on blueberries
and strawberries at local markets provides a convenient, healthy snack for
beach days at Sand Harbor or Emerald Bay.
Go ahead,
enjoy a berry holiday and stay healthy throughout the summer season. Bonus: What Happens When You Eat These 7 Superfoods?
CAL OREY,
M.A., is a bestselling author-novelist specializing in topics such as
adventure, health, nutrition, and science. She holds a bachelor’s degree and
master’s degree in English (Creative Writing) from San Francisco State
University. Her books include the popular Healing Powers series. The new,
revised 2nd ed. of the popular Healing Powers of Honey, 2026 is ready for pre-order,
and available August 25. She will be signing books at Reno Barnes and Noble
bookstore on September 19. She is a
South Lake Tahoe local. Her website is www.calorey.com
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