Strawberries are one of the most popular berries in the world! They are loaded with antioxidants, folate and vitamin C, and these are just a few reasons why you must add them to your diet.
From a salad to a salsa, strawberries are a great way to amp up any dish. Bursting with bright, juicy flavours, strawberries are not only scrumptious but they are good for your overall health as well. If you are in love with this heart-shaped berry, you should know the health benefits of strawberries too!
6 health benefits of strawberries
Strawberries are a powerhouse of nutrients that offer numerous benefits. Here are the health benefits of strawberries you must know:
1. Promotes heart health
Did you know that heart disease is one of the most common causes of death around the world? As per a study published in Harvard Health Publishing, eating strawberries is a good way to protect your heart. Another study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that strawberries also improve the factors that increase heart disease risk, including HDL (good) cholesterol, blood pressure, and blood platelet count.
woman with hand on your chest
Eating strawberries can help promote heart health. Image courtesy: Adobe stock
Also Read: Strawberries can add a dash of sweetness to your sex life!
2. Boosts immunity
Strawberries are rich in antioxidants, including vitamin C that can help bolster immunity and reduce your chances of getting sick. A study published in the journal Phytomedicine found that including strawberries in your diet helps prevent oxidative stress and inflammation, both of which help strengthen your immunity and keep diseases at bay.
3. Reduces diabetes risk
Your body breaks down carbs into simple sugars after consumption and releases them into your bloodstream, secreting insulin. This signals your cells to use sugar as fuel. Any imbalance in your blood sugar levels can increase the risk of obesity, type-2 diabetes, and heart disease.
4. Keeps blood pressure in check
Rich in antioxidants like anthocyanins, strawberries can help keep your blood pressure levels in check. Anthocyanins can help reduce blood pressure in people suffering from hypertension, according to a study published in the journal Nutrients.
5. Prevents constipation
Are you looking for foods that aid digestion? Try strawberries! Foods high in fibre help promote digestion and stool movement, avoiding problems such as constipation. Strawberries are rich in fibre, making them a great food for someone who suffers from constipation.
6. Alleviates stroke risk
A stroke occurs when the blood flow to the brain is blocked, which leads to bleeding. A rich source of magnesium, phosphorus, vitamin C, and other antioxidants, eating strawberries helps reduce the risk of conditions like stroke.
Are there any side effects of eating strawberries?
Strawberries are safe to eat, even when they are frozen and dried. However, you should eat strawberries in moderation in case:
People with allergies to strawberries should avoid eating them. It can cause itching, nausea and dizziness.
Eating too many strawberries can also lead to digestion problems as strawberries are rich in fibre.
It is also safe when applied to the skin, however, people with skin conditions should consult a dermatologist to avoid any risks.
Strawberries are rich in potassium, which is good for your heart. However, it can be harmful to your kidneys if you are already taking medication for a heart condition. You will end up having too much potassium which can be harmful to your kidneys.
Best time to eat strawberries
You can eat strawberries in the morning as part of your breakfast. Eating strawberries in the evening is also a good idea if you eat them before dinner as a snack. Avoid strawberries late at night after dinner as it can lead to digestive problems. Also, people with kidney problems should consult a doctor before adding strawberries to their diet.