Strawberries are colorful, sweet and vibrant fruits.
They are one of the most popular berries in the United States.
They are often used in desserts and salads, but are equally delicious eaten by themselves, raw and organic of course.
Besides their amazing taste, strawberries are also champions when it comes to vital nutrients.
Let’s look at the health benefits of strawberries.
Anti-inflammatory:
The polyphenols in strawberries work similar to over-the-counter medications like ibuprofen and aspirin, by stopping the activity of an enzyme called cyclooxygenase (COX), which causes inflammation. Because of these anti-inflammatory effects, strawberries may help with conditions like asthma, atherosclerosis, and osteoarthritis.
Antioxidant rich:
Strawberries are packed with a great variety of antioxidants, so it is not surprising at all how many health benefits they provide.
Antioxidants promote overall health by fighting the effects of oxidative stress. According to Dr. Andrew Weil, “oxidative stress is the total burden placed on organisms by the constant production of free radicals in the normal course of metabolism plus whatever other pressures the environment brings to bear (natural and artificial radiation, toxins in air, food and water; and miscellaneous sources of oxidizing activity, such as tobacco smoke).”
The effects of oxidative stress are often linked to chronic illnesses such as heart disease and many types of cancers.
Blood sugar:
Strawberries may decrease risk of type 2 diabetes. One recent study showed that when consuming strawberries after consuming table sugar, the blood sugar spike from eating the table sugar was significantly reduced. This means that strawberries may help regulate blood sugar. Strawberries contain enzymes called ellagitannins, which help break down starches into simple sugars, putting less load on blood glucose.
Cancer prevention:
Because of the potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties of strawberries, they are considered powerful foods for preventing cancer. According to the American Institute of Cancer Research, “All berries, but particularly strawberries and raspberries, are rich in ellagic acid. In laboratory studies, this phytochemical has shown the ability to prevent cancers of the skin, bladder, lung, esophagus and breast.”
Heart health:
Strawberries are well known as heart healthy foods. They are one of the best sources of vitamin C, with 149% of the recommended daily value. Vitamin C is a potent antioxidant.
Strawberries are also full of phytonutrients such as anthocyanins, flavonols, hydroxy-benzoic acids, hydroxy-cinnamic acids, tannins, and stilbenes, which all have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits.
Studies show that they may reduce heart attack risk in women.
Weight loss:
Strawberries are an excellent source of dietary fiber and are also low in calories. By keeping the digestive system regular and regulating blood sugar, they make a great addition to a weight loss diet.
For a raw strawberry jam recipe.
For the top heart foods.
For how berries may reduce heart attack risk in women.
For the powerful colors of berries.
REFERENCES
1. “Evaluation of Antiproliferative, Anti-Type 2 Diabetes, and Antihypertension Potentials of Ellagitannins from Strawberries.” Http://online.liebertpub.com. Mary Ann Liebert, Inc., 01 Oct. 2010. Web. 27 July 2013.
2. “Berries Modify the Postprandial Plasma Glucose Response to Sucrose in Healthy Subjects.” National Center for Biotechnology Information. U.S. National Library of Medicine, n.d. Web. 27 July 2013.
3. “Foods That Fight Cancer.” AICR.org. American Institute for Cancer Research, n.d. Web. 27 July 2013.
4. Weil, Andrew, M.D. “Stumped by Oxidative Stress?” DrWeil.com. DrWeil.com, n.d. Web. 27 July 2013.