Strawberries are quite popular during the Valentine’s season. What you might not realize is that the health benefits of strawberries can do wonders if consumed on a regular basis. In Dubai, we are lucky to have strawberries throughout the year because in some other parts of the globe, they are seasonal, and people can’t get them as fresh as we do. But still, regardless of the form in which they come in, they still contain some super health benefits.
The strawberries and their health benefits are among the most popular berries and can be traced back to the Roman Empire where they were used for their medicinal properties. They were a rich man’s delicacy and the bride and groom would eat them on their wedding day.
One of the theories of how the strawberry acquired its name is that children used to sell them to passersby by hanging the berries on a straw hence the name ‘strawberry’.
RELATED ARTICLE: Proven Benefits of Drinking Lemon Water
Amazing Health Benefits of Strawberries
Although the strawberry is not a big fruit, each of them contains a whooping 200 seeds and it’s the only fruit that has its seeds on the outside. This fleshy and delicious fruit is loved both by adults and children alike. It can be used in a number of dishes, including cereals, healthy shakes, salads, baking, desserts or on its own. Below are the amazing health benefits of strawberries.
Plenty of Vitamin C
Most mammals except humans have the ability to naturally produce vitamin C which is a quick working antioxidant. A serving of strawberries contains half of the daily requirement intake of vitamin C. This is why you should not wait for Valentine’s Day in order to enjoy strawberries.
Antiaging Properties
Vitamin C found in strawberries produces collagen which helps in maintaining the skins elasticity. As we age, we lose collagen and eating foods rich in vitamin C helps to keep the skin healthier and younger looking. On the other hand, there are a number of skincare treatments which also increase the production of collagen by the skin.
Inflammation Reduction
Strawberries contain phytochemicals and antioxidants which help in reducing inflammation of the joints. This inflammation more often than not leads to arthritis and heart diseases. So by consuming strawberries and enjoying their health benefits, you will be keeping cardiovascular illnesses at bay.
Regulate Blood Pressure
Strawberries are a source of potassium which helps in regulating and lowering blood pressure. It does this by acting as a buffer against the negative effects of sodium.
Fiber Booster
Low production of fiber leads to constipation and diverticulitis which is inflammation of the intestines. Strawberries help a great deal in digestion hence avoiding these problems.
Eye Care
Free radicals can lead to certain eye problems like dry eyes, muscular and optical nerve degeneration, vision defects, and increased risk of infections. Strawberries contain antioxidants such as flavonoids, phenolic photochemicals and elagic acid which help to avoid these situations greatly.
SEE ALSO: Detox Tea Recipes that will Have your Liver Thanking You
Immune System Booster
Vitamin C in strawberries boosts the immune system which is the body’s first line of defense against infections.
Simple Strawberry Smoothie Recipe
To help you reap the maximum health benefits of strawberries without killing off nutrients, here is a simple smoothie recipe which you can also have for breakfast. It can also alleviate symptoms of constipation
Ingredients
- Strawberries
- Frozen natural yoghurt
- Fresh apple juice
Directions
Put all the ingredients (in potions of your choice) in a blender and blend until everything is smooth. Then enjoy your smoothie.
If you have any amazingly easy strawberries’ recipes, feel free to share with us in the comments below.
Author: Sue Kim