Strawberries are sweet, red, heart-shaped fruits, loved for their delectable taste as well as their health benefits. Native to many different parts of the globe, this fruit belongs to the rose family and has a distinct aroma. The leaves of strawberries can even be consumed raw, cooked or used to make an antioxidant-rich strawberry tea.
Nutritional Facts of Strawberries
As one of the available natural therapies in the world, strawberries are packed with vitamins and minerals such as vitamin C and K, folate, potassium, manganese and magnesium. They are low-calorie, fiber-rich fruits, rich in antioxidants and polyphenols.
According to the experts, a cup-full of strawberries contains only 49 calories, provides 3g of fiber and 12g of carbohydrates.
The Health Benefits of Strawberry
Now, let’s take a good look at some of the health benefits of strawberries:
- Improves Heart Function
Strawberries have an abundant level of heart-healthy antioxidants such as ellagic acid and flavonoids such as catechin, quercetin and kaempferol. These phenolic compounds help lower the risk of cardiovascular diseases by inhibiting the formation of bad cholesterol (LDL).
- Helps Boost Brain Function
Strawberries are also rich in iodine, vitamin C and phytochemicals, which help maintain the proper functioning of the nervous system.
The potassium found in strawberries has also been linked to improved cognitive function, due to increased blood circulation to the brain. Furthermore, a high consumption of flavonoids, especially from blueberries and strawberries, has been shown to lower the rate of cognitive decline in elderly people.
- Helps Prevent Cancer
The flavonoids in strawberries, namely vitamin C, folate, anthocyanins, quercetin and kaempferol help act as antioxidants and together, they help form a strong line of defense against cancer and tumor growth. Daily intake of strawberries has also been linked to a drastic reduction in the presence and metastasis of cancer cells.
- Promotes Skin Care
Strawberries contain salicylic acid, alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) and ellagic acid, which help lower hyperpigmentation, prevent acne and eliminate dead skin cells.
To make a face mask for glowing skin, you can crush 4-5 strawberries and mix the pulp with a tablespoon of honey. Apply it all over the face, leave it to dry, and then wash it off afterward. For the lips, a strawberry moisturizing lip balm also helps in keeping lips hydrated.
- Eye Care
Consuming strawberries can help prevent conditions such as dry eyes, optic nerve degeneration, vision defects and an increased susceptibility to infections.
Studies have shown that the antioxidants in strawberries such as flavonoids, phenolic phytochemicals and ellagic acid can help avoid almost any kind of eye problem because they help protect against free radical scavenging activity.
As a form of natural homeopathy treatment, strawberries are effective in giving you the following health benefits. It’s alright to have a heaping dose of this sweet treat, but make sure not to overdo it as too much of something is still bad for your health. Don’t neglect the fact that you still need to see a doctor should you have complicated health problems that can’t be solved by natural means.
