The Incredible Health Benefits of Strawberries
Friday, June 11, 2010
Sliced up in a salad, blended in a smoothie or served as is, it's hard to resist strawberries. These juicy berries are loaded with health benefits. Rich in fiber, antioxidants, flavonoids and packed with nutrients, strawberries are fat-free and low in calories. In fact, one cup of strawberries is a slim 45 calories.
For hundreds of years, strawberries have had a variety of medical uses. The Romans used them to alleviate symptoms of fainting, kidney stones, inflammation, diseases of the blood, liver and spleen, throat infections, bad breath, attacks of gout, melancholy and fever. In present times, strawberries are still regarded as a super fruit brimming with healthy attributes.
One cup of strawberries (halved) provides 149% daily value of vitamin C. That's more vitamin C than one orange. Strawberries are also an excellent source of fiber, potassium, folate, copper, manganese and omega-3 fatty acids. They will also provide you with a good source of vitamins B2, B5, B6 and K.
Unfortunately, there are people who are allergic to strawberries. The allergy has been linked to those who are also allergic to birch and ragweed pollens. Get tested by an allergist to make sure before you delete this amazing food from your diet.
As an antioxidant, strawberries rank high. According to the USDA, strawberries are one of the top 20 fruits with the most antioxidant capacity. Strawberries are rich in anthocyanins, a powerful antioxidant that helps protect the body against free radical damage that may lead to heart disease and premature aging.
Strawberries are often recommended for those with high blood pressure as they are rich in magnesium and potassium, two essential minerals that aid in lowering your blood pressure.
Data from a 2007 Harvard Women’s Health Study tells of a potential link between strawberries and heart health. Vitamin C, folate, fiber and potassium in strawberries are all associated with heart health benefits including the reduced risk of angina (Vitamin C), lower coronary disease risk (Vitamin C, folate) and lower cholesterol and blood pressure (fiber and potassium).
Strawberries not only delicious, they are great for fighting inflammation as well. they also may lower blood levels of C-reactive protein (CRP), a signal of inflammation in the body, which is great news for those who suffer from arthritis.
The seemingly endless benefits of the magical, beautiful strawberry are often suggested for those who have gout, constipation, poor skin, and even those who want healthier teeth. Cut a strawberry in half and wipe it over your teeth and gums, and it eliminates the tartar from the teeth and leads to healthier gums.
