Strawberries and its Benefits
They're an excellent source of vitamin C and manganese and also contains decent amounts of folate (vitamin B9) and potassium. Strawberries are very rich in antioxidants and plant compounds, which are good for heart health and blood sugar control.
Why you should add more strawberries to your diet
Strawberries are a bona fide super food. Nutrient-rich and packed with antioxidants (like vitamin C), the benefits of strawberries are endless.
Gives your immunity a boost
“Strawberries are an excellent source of vitamin C.Vitamin C is a well-known immunity booster, as well as a powerful, fast-working antioxidant.
Maintains healthy vision
The antioxidant properties in strawberries may also help to prevent cataracts - the clouding over of the eye lens - which can lead to blindness in older age. Our eyes require vitamin C to protect them from exposure to free-radicals from the sun’s harsh UV rays, which can damage the protein in the lens. Vitamin C also plays an important role in strengthening the eye’s cornea and retina.
Ward off cancer
Vitamin C is one of the antioxidants that can help with cancer prevention, since a healthy immune system is the body’s best defense. A phytochemical called ellagic acid - also found in strawberries - is another. “Ellagic acid has been shown to yield anti-cancer properties like suppressing cancer cell growth.
Keeps wrinkles at bay
The power of vitamin C in strawberries continues, as it is vital to the production of collagen, which helps to improve skin’s elasticity and resilience. Since we lose collagen as we age, eating foods rich in vitamin C may result in healthier, younger-looking skin.
Lowers cholesterol
The benefits of strawberries include powerful heart-health boosters. “Ellagic acid and flavonoids - or phytochemical - can provide an antioxidant effect that can benefit heart health in various ways.
Reduces pesky inflammation
The antioxidants and phytochemicals found in strawberries may also help to reduce inflammation of the joints, which may cause arthritis and can also lead to heart disease.
Regulate your blood pressure
Potassium is yet another heart healthy nutrient. Potassium can help regulate blood pressure and may even help to lower high blood pressure by acting as a buffer against the negative effects of sodium.
Boost your fibre intake
Fibre is a necessity for healthy digestion, and strawberries naturally contain about 2 gm per serving. Fibre can also aid in fighting type 2 diabetes. “Fibre helps slow the absorption of sugars (i.e., glucose) in the blood. Adults who are managing diabetes can enjoy strawberries - in moderation - in their diet.
Aid in weight management
Maintaining a healthy weight is one of the best defenses against type 2 diabetes and heart disease. Strawberries are naturally low in calories, fat-free and low in both sodium & sugar.
Help to promote pre-natal health
Folate is a B-vitamin recommended for women who are pregnant or trying to conceive, and strawberries are a good source. Folate is necessary in the early stages of pregnancy to help in the development of the baby’s brain, skull and spinal cord, and the folic acid in strawberries may help to prevent certain birth defects, such as spina bifida.