This bright red colored, heart-shaped berry belongs to the genus Fragaria (rose family). It is famous for its taste, aroma, and of course, many health properties. There are a lot of varieties of strawberries cultivated around the world, but the most common type is the hybrid of wild Virginia strawberry and the Chilean variety. From taste to health benefits, this fruit provides everything. If you love eating healthy fruits and want to know more about strawberry and its several benefits, then this article will help you for sure. Let’s get started with its history.
History
Strawberries are native to North America. Back then, the Indians used them in many dishes. In the 1600s, the first colonists in America shipped this aromatic berry plants to Europe for cultivation. Other varieties of strawberries also started to get discovered in different parts of America, and one of those varieties was discovered in Central and South America, which the conquistadors called futilla.
Before the 19th century, Americans didn’t bother cultivating strawberries because they were already abundant in the wilds. The 19th century was the period when this sweet fruit started getting fame when it was combined with the cream. People considered it a luxurious dessert. Now, strawberries are cultivated in an enormous amount all over the world. Many areas in North America also have strawberry festivals.
Nutrition Facts
One cup (100g) of strawberry contains:
- 32Kcal Energy
- 90.9g Water
- 0.67g Protein
- 0.3g Total fat
- 2g Dietary fiber
- 7.68g Carbohydrates
- 4.89g Sugars
- 16mg Calcium
- 0.41mg Iron
- 13mg Magnesium
- 1mg Sodium
- 0.02g Fatty acids (saturated)
Uses of Strawberries
- You can prepare a sugar-free strawberry jam
- Add milk, honey, and a handful of strawberries in a blender to make a healthy strawberry milkshake
- Make a smoothie by blending strawberries, some greens, and your favorite fruits together. It is a great and healthy way to start your morning with
- Remove their stems and eat them raw
- You can make a parfait dessert by making layers of strawberries, blueberries, and plain yogurt in a wine glass
Benefits for Health
Regulates the blood sugar levels
A study proved that the consumption of strawberries can reduce blood glucose levels. The presence of ellagic acid and a high concentration of antioxidants in them can help slow down the digestion of starchy foods. You can eat a handful of strawberries after having a meal containing starch. Strawberries can help control the rise in blood sugar levels of both a healthy person and a type-2 diabetic.
Prevent oesophageal cancer
According to a study, consuming strawberry freeze-dried powder can prevent human oesophageal cancer (a type of cancer in which abnormal cells grow in the food pipe in an uncontrolled way).
Improves eye health
The high concentration of antioxidants and vitamin C in strawberries can help prevent many eye diseases including cataract, macular generation, etc. Strawberries are also rich in folate, fiber, and contain an abundant amount of phytochemicals.
In the morning, get a handful of strawberries and serve them with fresh Greek yogurt or steel cut oatmeal for a healthy breakfast.
Helps fight cancer
According to research conducted by the American Institute for Cancer Research, strawberries showed the ability to prevent cancer of the skin, bladder, lung, esophagus, and breast. It is because of ellagic acid and a wide range of other phytochemicals present in strawberries.
Helps boost immunity
A single serving of Strawberries has about 150% of your daily requirement of vitamin C that helps boost the immune system and cure a common cold and cough.
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Aids in losing weight
Consuming strawberries on a regular basis can boost the production of adiponectin and leptin that are known best for reducing appetite, decreasing glucose, and burning body weight and fat. All these things result in weight loss.
Improves bone health
Berries, including strawberries, are rich in vitamin C and K, Manganese, and potassium. A study stated that these micronutrients are a good source for improving bone health. They also help retain calcium in the body that promotes higher bone density.
Benefits for skin
Better skincare
Strawberries consist of many properties that promote better skincare. Some of them are ellagic acid, alpha hydroxy acid (AHA), and salicylic acid. All of them together can help reduce hyperpigmentation, remove dead skin cells, and prevent acne and other skin conditions.
You can also prepare an excellent skin mask at home. All you need are 4 crushed strawberries and a tablespoon of honey. Mix these two together and apply the mask on your face, leave it till dry, and then wash off.
Anti-aging
Collagen is the basic building block of skin and other connective tissues. Strawberries boost collagen production that results in younger and rejuvenated skin. A study showed that strawberry extract is a rich source of anthocyanins and protects well against ultraviolet radiation.
Conclusion
Strawberries are one of the most consumed berries in the world due to its great taste and plenty of health benefits. You should add a little portion of fresh strawberries in your regular diet to have something nutritious on your plate. If you want to experience more health benefits of strawberries, you can use the products mentioned above, they all have strawberry as a major ingredient in their formula.