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It is spring here in South Carolina! And there’s one thing that I get particularly excited about every time March comes along…the start of strawberry season! Strawberries are one of the most popular fruits in the world. And they are my favorite fruit too! I love using them in salads or yummy desserts. I even love eating them all by themselves.
There is no doubt that strawberries taste amazing. But did you know that they are packed with some health benefits that make them a great part of a real food diet too?
Here are eight health benefits of strawberries:
They are rich in antioxidants
Strawberries contain high levels of antioxidants. Antioxidants help to protect the body from damage caused by free radicals, molecules that can cause damage to DNA in the body. The antioxidants in strawberries help to protect the body from free radicals which in turn can reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as cancer, heart disease, and Alzheimer’s disease.
Strawberries help boost the immune system
Strawberries are rich in vitamin C which helps to stimulate the production of white blood cells. White blood cells are a vital part of the immune system’s function, helping to fight off infections and diseases.
Good for your heart
Strawberries are rich in things such as fiber, potassium, and polyphenols. These compounds help lower blood pressure and can help reduce the risk of heart disease.
Can help reduce inflammation
Inflammation has been linked to chronic health conditions such as heart disease, cancer, arthritis, and Alzheimer’s disease. Strawberries contain high levels of anthocyanins which can reduce inflammation in the body. Studies have shown that including berries in a healthy diet can slow or even stop the onset of chronic diseases linked to inflammation in the body.
Good for healthy digestion
Strawberries are rich in fiber which is great for digestion. The fiber can help to keep you regular. And it can help reduce the risk of digestive issues such as bloating and constipation.
Balances blood sugar
Strawberries are relatively low in sugar and are low on the glycemic index. This means that they do not cause spikes in blood sugar levels. This makes them a great option for people who are diabetic or who are looking for better blood sugar balance.
Strawberries are great for brain health
We already looked at the anthocyanins in these berries and how they help to reduce inflammation. They have also been shown to reduce cognitive decline in both younger and older adults. So eating strawberries can help to keep your memory sharp!
Help keep skin healthy
Your skin contains a lot of collagen, which helps to keep the skin tight and healthy. But collagen cannot be produced without adequate levels of vitamin C in the body. Because strawberries are rich in vitamin C, they can help boost collagen production, keeping skin healthy.
These beautiful red berries are not just delicious to eat, but they are a great source of vital nutrients that can help keep you healthy too! Find out when it is strawberry season where you live and take advantage of the fresh, tasty berries near you!