Strawberries

Strawberries are a very popular fruit that many people find desirable. They are consumed all over the world, and can be cultivated worldwide since they don’t need extremely warm temperatures to grow. Strawberries are a rich source of anthocyanins and catechin antioxidants. These antioxidants give strawberries their rich red colour. Antioxidants are also needed to fight free radicals.

Free radicals// Free radicals are produced in the body (exposure to sun, exercise, damage to cell). Too many free radicals cause oxidative damage to healthy tissues and induces aging. For those who enjoy chemistry: Free radicals are an unpaired electron in orbit around the nucleus of an atom. In order to regain balance, antioxidants are able to neutralize free radicals and protect the cell from oxidation.

Research studies
Peer-reviewed journals

Studies show (here) strawberries can help with reducing hypertension (high blood pressure). There have also been studies (here) showing the beneficial effects of strawberries inhibiting inflammation, blocking initiation of carcinogens (cancer cells) and lowing the risk for cardiovascular disease.

Nutrients// Based on 1 cup of strawberries

—–>Dietary Fibre// 3.3g (13% DV)
—–>Vitamin C// 149% DV
—–>Folate// 9% DV
—–>Manganese// 29% DV
—–>Potassium// 7% DV

How to select// Choose strawberries that are firm and have a sweet scent. Frozen strawberries also available in stores (great for smoothies!).
How to store// Store strawberries in refrigerator up to 1-2 weeks or until moldy. Do not wash until ready to eat.
How to eat// Raw, over oatmeal/yogurts, in smoothies, in desserts, jams, also try my strawberry & mango recipe here!

What’s your favorite way to enjoy strawberries?

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