What Are Strawberries? This article explores the Nutrition Facts, Vitamins, and Minerals of Strawberries and the health benefits associated with eating them. You'll be surprised at how healthy they are! Strawberries are packed with beneficial nutrients and can be consumed daily. Read on to find out why! This delicious fruit has a low GI, so it is excellent for weight loss, but you can eat them anytime!
Strawberries are deliciously eaten alone or in many recipes
What Are Strawberries?
Strawberry is a fruit with many health benefits. It contains high amounts of vitamin C; one hundred grams of ripe strawberries contains more than 58.8 mg of vitamin C or almost 70% of the RDI. This antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compound helps protect cells from damage and promotes cardiovascular and vascular health. Strawberries contain high levels of vitamin C, which is essential for human health as the body cannot produce it. It must be obtained through diet.
Strawberries are deliciously eaten alone or in many recipes. They are a favorite dessert ingredient and pair well with chocolate, sour cream, and whipped cream. Chocolate-covered strawberries are a popular treat for loved ones on special occasions, such as Valentine's Day. They also pair well with rhubarb, filling a fresh summer salad with strawberries. You can also freeze-dry strawberries for snacking and using them in granola bars.
Strawberries come in a variety of colors. They are most common in red, but there are also yellow, white, and green varieties. Strawberry plants produce more than 600 varieties, all with slightly different flavors. You can recognize a strawberry's red flesh, bright green cap, and stem. Wild strawberries are smaller and have a more intense flavor than their cultivated counterparts. In addition to the fruit's delicious taste, strawberries are high in vitamin C and antioxidants.
Nutrition Facts of Strawberries
You may not know that strawberries have a high antioxidant content. According to the United States Department of Agriculture's ORAC method, strawberries rank high in antioxidant capacity. They also contain folate, which is linked to decreased risk of congenital disabilities and cancer. Strawberries' other nutrients are potassium, folate, fiber, and vitamin C. These nutrients support the body's defense against the below-mentioned conditions.
According to the California Strawberry Commission, a serving of strawberries provides 160 percent of the daily vitamin C requirement. Studies have shown that strawberries have a beneficial effect on cancer development. Flavonoids, a type of antioxidant, suppress the growth of breast, prostate, and colon cancer cells. Flavonoids also inhibit chemically-induced cancers, such as macular degeneration. As a result, strawberries are a great source of antioxidants.
Nutrition facts of 100 grams (3.5 ounces) of fresh strawberries have:
- Calories: 32
- Fat: 0.3 grams
- Protein: 0.7 grams
- Sugar: 4.9 grams
- Carbs: 7.7 grams
- Fiber: 2 grams
- Water: 91%
- Sodium: 1 milligram
- Vitamin C: 58.8 milligrams
- Potassium: 155.3 milligrams
- Magnesium: 13.2 milligrams
Studies have also linked strawberries to improved heart health. Several extensive observational studies have suggested that berries may improve HDL cholesterol levels, lower blood pressure, and protect against heart disease. They are also high in the B-complex family of vitamins, such as niacin, pantothenic acid, and folic acid. These vitamins act as co-factors in the metabolism of protein and carbohydrates.
Vitamins and Minerals
Strawberry fruit contains a high concentration of phytochemicals, including vitamin-A and vitamin-E, and polyphenolic antioxidants, which act as protective scavengers of free radicals and reactive oxygen species. These nutrients are essential in supporting the body's defense mechanisms, including against cardiovascular disease. The high concentration of anthocyanins and quercetin, two of the antioxidants found in strawberries, may also help protect the circulatory system and lower the risk of cardiovascular disease.
Fresh berries contain high levels of vitamin C, with 58.8 mg per 3.5 ounces. This vitamin works as an effective antioxidant to fight infection, combat inflammation, and scavenge harmful free radicals. Fresh strawberries also contain Vitamins A, B-complex vitamins, and C, as well as potassium. Those vitamins and minerals act as co-factors in the metabolism of carbohydrates, so you'll benefit from eating them often.
As one of the most nutritious fruits, strawberries are rich in antioxidants and fiber. They also contain low levels of cholesterol and sodium. Strawberries can be enjoyed as is or added to smoothies, salads, or smoothies. Consuming them raw will maximize the health benefits they provide. Listed below are some of the benefits of strawberries. And don't forget to keep in mind that strawberries are low in calories and high in fiber.
Health Benefits of Strawberries
Among the many other health benefits of strawberries is a boost to your immune system. The high levels of vitamin C in strawberries can reduce your risk of several types of cancer. Furthermore, strawberries contain antioxidants, which scavenge free radicals and neutralize their effects. These compounds help fight inflammation, lower blood pressure and maintain healthy eyesight. In addition, strawberries are high in dietary fiber, which can help promote digestive health.
Studies show that strawberries contain many beneficial plant compounds, such as antioxidants and flavonoids. They may improve heart health, prevent cancer, and help regulate blood sugar levels. Some researchers believe that strawberries may also improve HDL cholesterol levels, reduce blood pressure, and increase the function of platelets. Freeze-dried strawberries have also reduced the risk of type 2 diabetes and metabolic syndrome. Additionally, strawberries may help improve your skin's elasticity and prevent dry skin.
When consuming a serving of a ripe strawberry, it is best to consume the fruit as it is fresh, as the vitamin C in the fruit is lost when the berries are exposed to air. People with weakened immune systems can also eat them.
Side Effects
Strawberry juice is a delicious and nutritious way to begin the day, but you should know that consuming strawberries in large amounts can upset your dog's stomach. Limiting your dog's consumption of large quantities of strawberries is essential, as they contain goitrogens, which can suppress thyroid function and interfere with the body's energy levels. A low-performing thyroid will cause your dog to lose energy and increase its weight.
Also, if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, you should consult your doctor about whether to eat strawberries or not.
Tips on including Strawberries in meal
There are several ways to incorporate strawberries into your meals. You can eat strawberries fresh in salads or add them to sauces. You can also freeze them for later use in a smoothie or other recipe. When thawing, strawberries will be soft and may break up. If you'd rather have a larger piece of strawberry, leave it whole or cut it into chunks. Either way, you'll be surprised at how delicious strawberries are!
Photo by Doug Kelley
Strawberries are available in the spring and early summer. Pick medium-sized strawberries as they are more flavorful and do not develop mold as quickly as jumbo strawberries. Store sliced strawberries in the fridge for up to a week to get the maximum benefit from them. To prepare a simple and delicious dish, layer cut strawberries on top of spring greens and sprinkle with red onion and feta cheese. Alternatively, you can use them to decorate your favorite cake, pastry, or even dessert.
Before preparing strawberries for dipping, make sure they are fresh. Always wash them thoroughly before using them. Remove any damaged, bruised, or spoiled strawberries and discard them. After washing, pat dry with a paper towel or put them in a colander. Removing green caps before dipping the fruit in the ice cream during cooking is essential. A simple twist will remove the green hats, which will make the strawberry taste fresher. Alternatively, you can purchase a strawberry de-stemmer.
