The Health Benefits of Strawberries
Known for their pop-in-your-mouth size, sweet taste and vibrant color, strawberries are also one of the healthiest fruits. They are low in sugar, high in fiber and packed with vitamin C, calcium, magnesium and potassium.
In a study, participants who drank strawberry juice for two months experienced a 5% decrease in cholesterol. That’s because strawberries contain ellagic acid which slows down the digestion of starchy foods and lowers blood sugar levels.
Antioxidants
The antioxidants in strawberries help prevent heart disease, high blood pressure, cancer, and constipation. They also contain vitamins and minerals that promote overall health. Strawberries are an excellent source of vitamin C and folic acid. They also provide the body with fiber, potassium, and calcium.
The ellagic acid in strawberry slows down the digestion of starchy foods, which reduces the post-meal spike in blood sugar for people with Type 2 diabetes. The antioxidants in strawberries also boost brain function and fight inflammation.
Studies show that eating more strawberries can lower cholesterol and blood pressure levels, prevent high-blood-pressure induced hypertension, and decrease the risk of osteoporosis. They also aid in the absorption of iron and help prevent anemia.
Anti-inflammatory
Research has shown that strawberries are a great source of vitamin C, which is important for the immune system. When paired with anthocyanins, the vitamin reduces widespread internal inflammation, which lowers triglycerides in the blood, helping to prevent heart disease.
One cup of strawberries, or eight medium berries, provides about 160 mg of vitamin C, which is known to boost the immune system. Folate, another B vitamin found in strawberry juice, is also essential for women of childbearing age, as it may help prevent some birth defects like spina bifida.
Strawberries are high in fiber, which promotes regular bowel movements and improves digestive health. They have a low glycemic index score and are safe for diabetics.
Heart-healthy
Strawberries are low in calories and provide a substantial amount of fiber, vitamin C, and antioxidant plant compounds. They also contain folate and potassium, all important nutrients for heart health.
Studies have shown that strawberries promote heart-healthy effects, including lowering cholesterol and triglycerides. They also reduce inflammation and improve blood-vessel function.
They are a good source of dietary fiber, which helps maintain regular bowel movements and ease constipation. The fiber in strawberries also feeds healthy bacteria in the digestive tract.
They are a good source of folic acid, which is recommended for women who are pregnant or trying to conceive. However, they can be high in salicylates, which may cause an allergic reaction in some people.
Prevents cancer
Strawberry-like compounds such as anthocyanins and ellagic acid are known to inhibit the growth of cancerous cells and protect DNA against damage. These plant chemicals can also induce apoptosis, or self-destruction of abnormal cells in the body.
Strawberries are a good source of potassium, which helps to improve blood circulation and lower high blood pressure. Their antioxidants reduce inflammation and prevent the oxidation of “bad” cholesterol, helping to maintain heart health.
Research has found that eating strawberries on a regular basis may significantly reduce the risk of esophageal squamous cell cancer. In addition, a diet rich in strawberries can help reduce the symptoms of a Barrett’s esophagus and peptic ulcers.
Aids in weight loss
Strawberries are low in calories and fat, making them a good addition to your weight loss plan. They are also a source of fiber, which can help keep you feeling full longer.
They contain vitamin C, which can boost your immunity and fight off diseases like the common cold. They also provide potassium, which can lower your blood pressure by relaxing the muscles and arteries.
The anthocyanin plant compounds found in strawberries, as well as quercetin and kaempferol, may reduce cholesterol levels and protect against heart disease. In one clinical study, participants who drank strawberry juice daily saw their triglyceride levels decrease by 10%.
Aids in pregnancy
Pregnant women can add strawberries to their diets in moderation if they have no allergies or medical issues. They contain essential vitamins and minerals that can help with pregnancy symptoms such as indigestion, nausea, and weight management.
Strawberries are rich in dietary fiber, which can feed the good bacteria in your digestive system. They also have a low glycemic index and are a great source of vitamin C, an antioxidant that can boost the immune system.
One cup of sliced strawberries provides 6% of the daily recommended amount of folate, which is needed to prevent some types of birth defects. A high-folate diet also reduces the risk of gestational diabetes, preeclampsia, and constipation.
