Why a strawberry is healthy?
Improves short-term memory: Strawberries contain anthocyanins. These are dyes that occur in red and blue fruits. These substances can improve brain functions (including short-term memory) [4].
Promotes heart health: A study conducted at Norwich Medical School has shown that you can reduce the risk of a heart attack by 32% if you eat 3 servings of strawberries per week. This is because a regular intake of anthocyanins (found in strawberries) improves your heart function.
Strawberries also contain polyphenol. This substance can lower blood pressure and prevent the formation of a blood clot, because the accumulation of blood platelets is prevented by this substance. Strawberries can thus reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease.
In addition to these benefits, eating strawberries can also reduce the risk of the artery disease atherosclerosis. This is because a strawberry contains a large amount of the anti-inflammatory substance quercetin [2].
Protects eyesight: It is possible that by eating strawberries you have a reduced chance of a clouding of the lens of the eye, also known as cataracts. Strawberries contain many antioxidants that can prevent this condition.
The high amount of vitamin C in a strawberry can contribute to the health of the cornea and retina [3]. Other fruits with a lot of vitamin C are: kiwi, pineapple and orange.
The Archives of Ophthalmology shows that the risk of macular degeneration, a disease that can cause vision loss, is also reduced when you regularly eat strawberries [1].
Reduces the complaints of allergies and asthma: Strawberries are rich in quercetin. The anti-inflammatory effect of this substance can reduce allergy symptoms, such as burning eyes and a runny nose [2].
Ensures healthy skin: Strawberries can provide healthy and young-looking skin. The vitamin C in strawberries promotes collagen production, which keeps your skin elastic.
The ellagic acid in strawberries also has a marked effect on skin health. Researchers at the Hallym University in Korea have discovered that this substance can prevent the development of wrinkles. Ellagic acid protects the elastic fibers in the skin, preventing it from sagging [1,3].
Nutritional value of strawberry
A 100 gram serving of strawberries has the following nutritional value [6]:
• 32 calories
• 8 grams of carbohydrates
◦ 2 grams of fiber
◦ 5 grams of sugars
• 1 gram of protein
• 0 grams of fat
A 100 gram serving of strawberries contains the following vitamins and minerals [6]:
• Vitamin C: 98% RDA
• Vitamin K: 3% DV
• Folic acid: 6% RDA
• Manganese: 19% DV
In addition, strawberries contain small amounts of calcium, iron, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, selenium and vitamins B1, B2, B3 and E.