Strawberries are a delicious fruit with quite the history. Historically, they were used for such conditions as kidney stones and were believed to possess great medicinal value. Strawberries were also used to symbolize perfection, righteousness, and love. Beyond these historical traits, strawberries provide an array of health benefits.
To begin with, strawberries are a terrific source of Vitamin C. They contain even higher concentrations of vitamin C than citrus fruits. A hand full of the fruit is enough to meet daily requirements for vitamin C. Strawberries also contain a high concentration of folate. Aside from these nutrients, strawberries are also a good source of fiber, potassium, vitamin A, manganese, iodine, magnesium, copper, iron, and phosphorous. In combination with these vitamins and minerals, strawberries also contain Quercetin, which has been shown to be effective for allergies. This fruit has also been shown to increase the absorption of iron from the diet.
Currently, we know that Strawberries have the following therapeutic actions, which makes it such a “Power Food”:
- Anti – neoplastic – research has suggested that strawberries can reduce the risk of colorectal cancer
- Anti – inflammatory – reduces or eliminates inflammation in the body
- Anti – oxidant – reduces free – radical damage that can promote or cause disease
- Anti – allergenic – reduces allergies, or symptoms of allergies
- Anti – bacterial – kills or inhibits the growth of bacteria
- Anti – aging – promotes health
- Anti – coagulant – reduces blood thickening that might lead to disease
- Anti – hypertensive – lowers blood pressure
Along with these health promoting benefits of strawberries, they also have the capacity to reduce insulin spikes following consumption of bread, protect against DNA damage (which can contribute to diseases such as cancer), and increase HDL (good) cholesterol.
Based on all of the properties that strawberries possess, they have the potential to aid in preventing cancer, cardiovascular disease, and plaque forming within arteries. One might argue that based on the properties that strawberries contain, that they could be beneficial for infections, high blood pressure, allergies, and promoting overall health.
Before you go running to pick those healthy, delicious strawberries, one thing should be taken into consideration. Food preparation matters. The fresher the fruit, the healthier it is for you! The more processing, such as cooking, that the fruit undergoes, the less of the nutritional properties that will be available.
So, the next time you look at a strawberry, do not merely judge it by its lovely red exterior, but acknowledge its nutritional value and how it can help you achieve your health goals!
Some of the information provided above may not be appropriate for everyone, please consult with your doctor before trying any of the above. If you are interested in Naturopathic Medicine and wanting a different approach to your health care needs, please book an appointment with Elisha Cook at the RSNC today and let me help you achieve your health goals.