Strawberries Benefits
Kamis, 26 Maret 2020
Strawberries Benefits
Strawberries (Fragaria × ananassa) are one of the most
popular types of berry fruit in the world. With over 600 varieties of
strawberries, this fruit comes in all different sizes, flavors and textures.
Formed inside
separate carpels of each flower, strawberries fall within the aggregate fruit
category much like blackberries and raspberries. Strawberries belong to the
Fragaria genus of plant from the family Rosaceae
(Fragaria × ananassa). In actuality, strawberries are a hybrid
species of fruit where the flesh or fruit portion grows out of the ovary
receptacle instead of the ovary itself. Because of this growth pattern,
strawberries are not considered true berries.
As one of the more adaptable fruit varieties, strawberries are
grown throughout the world especially in the sunnier climates. This fruit is
chocked full of vital nutrients yet only contains 55 calories per cup measure.
On average, eight strawberries can provide nearly 120 percent of
the recommended daily intake for vitamin
C. This high vitamin C content contributes to the
antioxidanteffects strawberries have. Other ingredients, known as
phytochemicals carry even higher levels of antioxidant compounds than the
vitamin C content offers. Strawberries contain several categories of
phytochemicals, some of which include:
Anthocyanins
Pterostilbene
Antioxidants in general help protect cells from damaging free
radical materials by strengthening cell structures. The anthocyanins in
particular are what give red strawberries their ruby red color.
High Fiber Content
As an aggregate fruit, a strawberry consists of tiny single
fruits contained inside a fleshy receptacle. The tiny white (or yellow) specks
found on the outside of the berry – what most people consider as seeds – are
the actual fruit portion while the tasty portion is the fleshy receptacle.
These seed-like specks – also known as achenes – account for the high fiber
content found in strawberries. Strawberries in general have around 200 seeds
each regardless of their actual size. For food comparison purposes, this means
a half cup of strawberries has more fiber content than a slice of whole wheat
bread.
Anti-Inflammatory
Chronic inflammation is a known precursor to many types of
disease conditions, such as type-2 diabetes, osteoporosis and Alzheimer’s. The
British Journal of Nutrition describes a study on the effects of strawberries
on the body’s inflammation and insulin responses in adults. The results from
the study showed strawberries to lower
the body’s level of inflammation biomarkers by 25 percent in 24 overweight
adults. Researchers concluded that a diet containing daily portions of
strawberries may help reduce the risk of developing inflammation-related
conditions.
Heart Health Benefits
Their combined antioxidant properties and high fiber content
make strawberries a strong ally in the fight against heart disease. As
antioxidants help promote healthy cell function, cells are better able to move
nutrient materials in and waste materials out. With high amounts of fiber,
blood vessels remain smooth and free of fatty blockages which are known to slow
blood flow and deprive the heart of needed blood supplies. These same effects
from strawberries also lower the risk of high blood pressure since
it takes less work for the heart to move blood throughout the body.
Strawberry extracts contain high levels of enzyme materials
which help cells fight against the body’s aging process. In general, aging
results from oxidative stress caused by weakened cell functions. Oxidative
stress occurs when cells become unable to eliminate waste materials created
during cell metabolism processes. A study conducted by Tufts University and the
University of Maryland tested the effects of strawberry extracts on rats
exposed to radioactive energy, which affects cells in much the same way as
waste materials. The results of the study showed the rats receiving strawberry
extract suffered fewer aging effects in terms of cognitive functions and motor
skills.
Preparation
For anyone considering strawberries as a supplement within their
daily diet, this fruit can be prepared in many ways each of which may produce
different effects. Various cultures use strawberries to treat a range of health
conditions. Within Native American cultures and European folk medicine, the
root of the strawberry is boiled to make a tea for treating indigestion, kidney
stones and as a diuretic.
Teas can also be made from the root and leaves of the strawberry
plant. In this form, strawberry can be used to treat diarrhea as well as
urinary tract infections, night sweats and fatigue.
Strawberry extracts are also available in tincture form, which can be added to
water in droplets. Extracts may also come in capsule form of up to 500
milligrams per capsule.