There’s nothing quite like biting into a sweet, juicy California strawberry. Even better is knowing that delicious strawberries are packed with some hefty nutritional benefits (as if you need a reason to eat more strawberries!).
Clinical research suggests eating just one serving of eight strawberries a day may improve heart health, help manage diabetes, support brain health, and reduce the risk of some cancers. Here’s a look at some of these amazing health benefits:
1. Strawberries are packed with vitamin C. Just one cup of strawberries has 95% of the daily value of vitamin C. Vitamin C not only plays a role in immune function, but it helps form vital parts of your body like blood vessels, cartilage, muscle and collagen in bones. It also helps your body absorb iron from plant foods and is an antioxidant that fights free radicals believed to be linked to heart disease and cancer.
2. Strawberries may improve heart health. In clinical research trials, strawberries have been shown to reduce total cholesterol and LDL cholesterol levels. Strawberries also contain 220 milligrams of potassium per serving, which may help control blood pressure and prevent strokes.
3. Strawberries contain fiber. Fiber supports both heart health and digestive health. Strawberries are a good source of fiber and contain 3 grams of both soluble and insoluble fiber. Soluble fiber has been shown to lower cholesterol when part of a healthy diet that is low in saturated fat.
4. Strawberries support brain health. A recent study in the Annals of Neurology suggests that eating berries more than twice a week appears to delay cognitive aging by up to 2.5 years. As an excellent source of vitamin C, pelargonidin, anthocyanidins, and flavonoids, strawberries may reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s Disease and related dementias.
5. Strawberries contain folate. Folate helps form red blood cells and helps all cells in the body to function properly. Folate is also important during pregnancy to help prevent birth defects. A serving of strawberries provides 8% of the recommended daily value of folate.
6. Strawberries are naturally sweet and low in calories. A serving of eight strawberries contains less than 8 grams of sugar and is under 50 calories. That’s less sugar than an apple and half the calories of a banana!
7. Strawberries can reduce inflammation. Findings from a clinical research study suggest eating strawberries may help reduce blood sugar levels and inflammation, especially when consumed two hours before a meal. Plus, the anthocyanins in strawberries may reduce inflammation, oxidative stress, and insulin resistance – all risk factors for type 2 diabetes.
8. Strawberries may contribute to gut health. Several studies that were recently published or are underway are looking closely at how strawberry consumption might impact the gut microbiome and, in turn, other aspects of health. In one study, the addition of strawberries increased the number of specific intestinal bacteria associated with lean body mass, health and longevity.
Strawberries are a versatile fruit, making It perfect to add to both sweet and savory dishes. Visit our Recipes page for tons of ideas to enjoy this favorite fruit!
