Savor Strawberries' Health Benefits
Jul-07-2011

It's strawberry season and SupermarketGuru wants to share some of the amazing health benefits of this sweet red berry. Shopping for produce in season ensures that you are getting the freshest, sweetest and most nutritious fruit available because of shorter transit time and on top of that seasonal fruits and vegetables cost less. Earlier this year several new findings were announced at the American Diabetes Association's (ADA) Food and Nutrition Expo in Boston, pertaining to strawberries health benefits and antioxidant capabilities.

Strawberry consumption can play an important role in cardiovascular health. A recent study found that 50 grams of strawberry powder per day (the equivalent of 3 cups of fresh strawberries) for eight weeks reduced total cholesterol levels and other markers of atherosclerosis.

Another study conducted by the Department of Nutrition, at the University of California, Davis, found that regular consumption (about a serving a day) may help mitigate the negative effects of a high-fat meal and reduce LDL oxidation- both important in preventing cardiovascular disease.

The ADA also found that strawberries might help with weight loss- by stimulating the metabolism and helping to suppress appetite. It should also be noted that, strawberries contain 49 calories per cup. They are a great source of vitamin C, fiber, as well as calcium, magnesium, iodine and potassium. Thus replacing other sweets with strawberries may help in weight loss efforts.

Strawberries are also a rich source of antioxidants that aid in reducing inflammation, pain, weight loss, and reduce the risk of chronic disease; specifically ellagic acid, as well as several flavonoids.

How to shop for strawberries? Look for strawberries that are firm to the touch, a deep, bright red color and are not bruised. They should smell very sweet. Strawberries should be consumed as close to purchase as possible, as the vitamin C content and antioxidants decreases rapidly several days after picking. It is also advised to leave the stems on the strawberries until ready to eat or use and for best flavor, do not wash the strawberries until you are ready to eat them.

Enjoy the strawberry season!

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Posted by Ken at 12:00 AM - Link to this entry  |  Share this entry  |  Print