Strawberries promote heart, brain, and gut health and more. Here are the top reasons why registered dietitians think you should eat this fruit.
“Strawberries are a source of antioxidants. Adding strawberries to a balanced diet has the potential to provide a wide range of benefits, from cardiovascular support and reduced inflammation to cancer protection, a healthier gut, and more. Some of the antioxidants found in strawberries include vitamin C and the carotenoids lutein and carotene. In addition, strawberries are a good source of other vitamins, minerals and fiber,” says dietitian Vasilisa Ponomareva especially for MedikForum.
Strawberries are a major source of antioxidants, which can help reduce oxidative stress
One of the most notable reasons to eat strawberries is to take advantage of their possible antioxidant properties. Berries are one of the most powerful sources of antioxidants. The researchers grouped wild strawberries with the most antioxidant-rich berries, including wild blueberries, blackberries, and blackcurrants.
Strawberries are loaded with vitamin C to support a healthy immune system
One of the most powerful antioxidants found in strawberries is vitamin C. The recommended daily intake of vitamin C is 75 milligrams (mg) for women and 90 mg for men. At 98 mg of vitamin C in 1 sliced cup, strawberries provide over 100 percent of your daily vitamin C requirement—more than oranges.
Through their antioxidants, strawberries may reduce cardiometabolic risk
Strawberries and the antioxidants they contain may have beneficial effects on heart health. Strawberries are inversely associated with cardiometabolic risk. It refers to risk factors that increase the risk of major vascular events such as heart attack and diabetes.
“Just four weeks of daily consumption of concentrated strawberry powder was enough to increase antioxidant activity and reduce inflammation associated with cardiometabolic risks.”
Sure, strawberries and strawberry powder are are not the same thing, so to confirm the results, a similar study with whole strawberries is needed.
Important! Information provided for reference purposes. Ask a specialist about contraindications and side effects and under no circumstances self-medicate. At the first sign of illness, consult a doctor.