Summer is the perfect time to get out there and enjoy some delicious strawberries! A seasonal berry can be a lot of fun taking the family out to pick strawberries, and they're versatile enough that you can eat them raw or add them to different recipes. Not only are strawberries delicious, but they can pack quite the nutritional punch as well, as they are loaded with antioxidants and vitamin C. Check out some benefits of strawberries for more reasons why you should be eating these delicious berries!
1. Antioxidants
According to WebMD, antioxidants are "important disease-fighting compounds. Scientists believe they help prevent and repair the stress that comes from oxidation, a natural process that occurs during normal cell function. "Strawberries deliver a high dose of antioxidants per serving, helping to ensure you're getting your daily dose to protect against diseases such as cancer, Alzheimer's, and heart disease.
Read more about antioxidant-rich food
2. They can increase your good (HDL) cholesterol
With obesity on the rise in the United States, the battle to keep cholesterol under control seems to always be increasing. The good news is that something as simple as a handful of strawberries a day could do wonders for increasing your good HDL (High-density lipoprotein) cholesterol levels.
A study from Oklahoma State University and published in Nutritional Sciences found that participants who ingested a strawberry beverage "showed a significant reduction in both total cholesterol and LDL cholesterol levels. The addition of strawberry to the diet helped to decreased total cholesterol levels by 10% and decrease LDL cholesterol levels by 11%," reports Nutrition Remarks.
3. It packs quite the punch of vitamin C
Vitamin C can do wonders for your immune system. While most people would reach for an orange, according to an article in The Huffington Post, "one serving (147 grams) of strawberries has 86.5 milligrams of vitamin C." So, the next time you aren't feeling so great, try grabbing a handful of strawberries!
4. It has anti-inflammatory capabilities
Inflammatory illnesses such as arthritis, heart disease, and inflammatory bowel disease can be a harrowing and debilitating disorders. The good news is that strawberries can help fight inflammation due to a chemical compound known as phenols. "The phenols in strawberries also fight against inflammation, a factor found in all diseases from acne to diabetes to cancer," reports The Daily Perricone.
Read more about fighting inflammation with food
5. They can help you reach your daily fiber requirements
Fiber is essential for proper digestion and can even help with your weight loss goals by keeping you satiated longer. Strawberries contain about two grams per serving and are a great boost towards meeting your daily intake requirements.
