Enjoying strawberries: 9 reasons to make the most of this amazing spring fruit!
The bright red color and sweet taste make them an irresistible food that is at the top of the favorite list for many. Strawberries are simply great, but we can eat this very tasty and very, very healthy fruit fresh only in the spring. We bring you 9 reasons why to make the most of them while they are available!
They are full of antioxidants
In fact, in the world of fruit, they rank very well – they are the fourth fruit with the highest level of antioxidants. Antioxidants protect our body from free radicals that are associated with premature aging and various diseases. They also contain natural phenols that serve the same purpose as anti-inflammatory aspirin or pain reliever ibuprofen. However, strawberry phenols do not cause intestinal bleeding like synthetic drugs.
They are an excellent source of vitamin C
Well known to all of us, vitamin C increases the strength of arteries, prevents the formation of bruises and strengthens the work of the adrenal glands, which require the highest level of vitamin C compared to all other glands or organs in our body. Eight strawberries contain more vitamin C than one orange!
Good for weight loss
Strawberries are low-calorie, containing only 36 calories in one portion (100g), do not contain fat and have a low level of sodium and sugar. Strawberries contain natural sugars, but there are few of them. Eat 1.5 cups of strawberries and you will take in significantly fewer calories than snacks.
Against tumors and allergies
Their flavonoid content causes the body to interfere with the stages of cancer cell development, preventing their ability to multiply, while the phenolic acids in this fruit have anti-allergic properties, which means they help reduce the biochemical processes associated with allergic reactions.
They regulate the blood sugar level as well
Losing weight is one of the best ways to prevent the onset of type 2 diabetes and heart disease, and, as we have already stated, strawberries will also help you in this. High sugar levels are associated with obesity, mood swings and diabetes. Strawberries have an anti-inflammatory and sedative effect, and research shows that they reduce the levels of the inflammatory marker C-reactive protein (CRP). The fiber in strawberries is great for preventing type 2 diabetes because it slows down the absorption of glucose into the blood.
They regulate blood pressure and cholesterol
One serving of strawberries contains 134 mg of potassium, which regulates blood pressure and acts as protection against the negative effects of sodium. Strawberries belong to the group of the healthiest foods for the heart. They contain ellagic acid and flavonoids that have a positive effect on the health of the entire cardiovascular system. They reduce the level of bad (LDL) cholesterol in the blood, which causes clogging of the arteries. They also have anti-inflammatory properties, which significantly improve heart health.
Good for eye health
The antioxidant properties of strawberries reduce the risk of developing cataracts, which can cause blindness. Eyes also need vitamin C to protect themselves from UV radiation, and the same vitamin plays an important role in strengthening the cornea and retina. Although some studies have shown that high doses of vitamin C can increase the risk of developing cataracts, scientists claim that this refers to vitamin C obtained from supplements, not vitamin C obtained from fruits and vegetables.
And also against wrinkles
Vitamin C is needed by the body to produce collagen, which improves the elasticity and resistance of the skin. Since collagen production decreases with age, consuming foods rich in vitamin C is necessary to keep the skin youthful and healthy. In addition to vitamin C, ellagic acid is also great for preventing premature wrinkles. In other words, strawberries contain two powerful fighters against premature signs of aging.
Excellent for digestion
Fiber is essential for the health of the digestive system, and strawberries contain 2g of fiber in one serving. If you don’t take enough fiber into your body, you may suffer from constipation and inflammation of the intestines, which affects almost 50% of people over 60 years of age.
