Today is National Pick Strawberries Day! These juicy red berries are not only delicious, but have a ton of nutrients and antioxidants – so it’s no wonder they have a day all their own. In celebration of this holiday, here are 10 health benefits of one of our favorite summer fruits!
1. They Boost Immunity.
One serving (1/2 cup) of strawberries contains 51.5 mg of vitamin C—about half of your daily requirement. Vitamin C is a well-known immunity booster, as well as a powerful, fast-working antioxidant.
2. They’re Full of Fiber.
One cup of strawberries contains over 13% of your daily recommended intake of dietary fiber, but only 43 calories! The dietary fiber in strawberries helps to keep digestion regular, as well as lowers blood pressure and curbs overeating.
3. They Promote Healthy Eyes
The antioxidant properties in strawberries may also help to prevent cataracts—the clouding over of the eye lens—which can lead to blindness in older age.
4. They Have Cancer Fighting Properties
The combination of antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compounds in strawberries are known to fight against the onset of many different forms of cancer. Thanks to the vitamin C, folate, and the flavonoids quercetin and kaempferol that they also contain, strawberries are a great defense against potentially cancerous cells.
5. They Fight Wrinkles
The power of vitamin C in strawberries continues, as it is vital to the production of collagen, which helps to improve skin’s elasticity and resilience. As we get older the collagen levels in our skin decrease, which increases the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. By eating foods rich in vitamin C, like strawberries, we can improve our skins clarity and prevent premature aging.
6. They Reduce Inflammation
The antioxidants and phytochemicals found in strawberries may also help reduce inflammation of the joints, which can cause arthritis and also lead to heart disease.
7. They Promote Increased Brain Function
The vitamin-C, phytochemicals, and iodine found in strawberries neutralize the effect of free radicals in the body that are responsible for aging, and also rejuvenate the brain and nervous system.
8. They Can Regulate Blood Pressure
Strawberries have 134 mg of potassium per serving, a heart healthy nutrient. Potassium can help regulate blood pressure and may even help to lower high blood pressure by acting as a buffer against the negative effects of sodium.
9. They Help With Weight Management
Strawberries are naturally low in calories, fat-free and low in both sodium and sugar. While they do have natural sugars, there are only 4 grams per serving and the total carbohydrate content is equivalent to less than a half slice of bread.
10. They Assist In Pre-Natal Health
Folate is a B-vitamin recommended for women who are pregnant or trying to conceive, and with 21 mcg per serving strawberries are a good source! Folate is necessary in the early stages of pregnancy and the folic acid in strawberries may help to prevent certain birth defects.
