Strawberries have the common scientific name of
Fragaria, but there are different suffixes for different varieties, such as
Fragaria Vesca for wild strawberry, and Fragaria Orientalis for Eastern
Strawberries, among others. Today, there are over 600 varieties of strawberries
that all differ in flavor, size and texture.
Strawberries grow in bushes and are one of the most
delicious seasonal fruits that also boost your health. Strawberries are
available year round, but peak strawberry season is April through July.
The strawberry is called ‘the queen of fruits’ in
Asian countries because it’s packed with health benefits. These juicy
heart-shaped delights have much more to offer beyond sweetness and flavor.
Health Benefits of
Strawberries
Helps burn
stored fat
The red coloring
contains anthocyanins, which stimulate the burning of stored fat. When a group
of animals was fed a high-fat diet along with anthocyanins, they gained 24
percent less weight than the animals eating the high-fat diet without added
anthocyanins. (The Journal of Agriculture and Food Chemistry)
Boost short
term memory
The anthocyanins boost
short term memory by 100 percent in eight weeks. (The Journal of Agricultural
and Food Chemistry)
Low in
Calories – High in Fiber
One cup of fresh fruit
contains only 54 calories.
Ease
Inflammation
Strawberries lower
blood levels of C-reactive protein (CRP), a signal of inflammation in the body.
In a study, women who ate 16 or more strawberries per week were 14 percent less
likely to have elevated levels of CRP. (Harvard School of Public Health.)
Lower
cardiovascular disease
Flavonoids — which are
responsible for the colour and flavour of strawberries — lower the risk for
heart disease.
Promote bone
health
Strawberries contain
potassium, vitamin K and magnesium which are important for bone health.
Anti-aging
properties
Strawberries are
filled with biotin, which helps build strong hair and nails. They also contain
the antioxidant ellagic acid, which protects the elastic fibers in our skin to
prevent sagging.
Good for
weight loss
The compound nitrate
found promotes blood flow and oxygen in our body, which is great for weight
loss.
Promote eye health
Eating three or more
servings of fruit like strawberries may lower the risk of macular degeneration,
a condition resulting in vision loss. (Archives of Ophthalmology)