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July 25, 2013

10 Super Health Benefits of Strawberries

The Strawberry is called ‘the queen of fruits” In Asian countries because it’s packed with health benefits. Compared to fruits like apples, oranges or bananas, strawberries have the highest amount of nutrients.
These juicy heart-shaped delights have much more to offer beyond sweetness and flavor.


10 Health Benefits of Strawberries

1. 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)


2. Boost short term memory
The anthocyanins boost short term memory by 100 percent in eight weeks. (The Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry)


3. Low in Calories – High in Fiber
One cup contains only 54 calories.


4. 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.)


5. Lower cardiovascular disease
Flavonoids — which are responsible for the colour and flavour of strawberries — lower the risk for heart disease.


6. Promote bone health
Strawberries contain potassium, vitamin K and magnesium which are important for bone health.


7. Prevent oesophageal cancer Studies show freeze-dried strawberry powder may help prevent human oesophageal cancer.


8. 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.


9. Good for weight loss
The compound nitrate found promotes blood flow and oxygen in our body, which is great for weight loss.



10. 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)


Strawberry Nutrition
Strawberries are considered one of the healthiest fruits. They are packed with antioxidants, lower blood pressure and protect your heart. Packed with essential vitamins and minerals, they are also sodium, cholesterol and fat free.
There are 54 calories in 1 cup of strawberries (sliced, 166g) which is 1/3 the amount of calories in a banana.

Cautions for some people:
Oxalates which are commonly found in animals, plants, human beings and of course, strawberries. When oxalates become too concentrated in our body fluids they are crystalized, causing serious health problems.

People with existing and untreated gallbladder or kidney problems may want to avoid having strawberries. Research shows that oxalates may interfere with the absorption of calcium in our body. But more in-depth research is needed to prove this.
 

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