6 benefits of strawberries, season, calories, storage method

Strawberry Nutrition

Strawberries are red, juicy and sweet. Strawberries are a great source of vitamin C and manganese and contain adequate amounts of folate and potassium. Strawberries are very rich in antioxidants and plant compounds, which may help with heart health and blood sugar control. It is usually eaten fresh, but can also be eaten in a variety of jams, jellies and desserts.

Strawberry Benefits

1. Anti-cancer effects – Cancer formation and progression are associated with oxidative stress and chronic inflammation. Strawberries have the ability to fight oxidative stress, which may help prevent heart disease and several cancers. Ellagic acid and ellagitannins contained in strawberries help prevent the growth of cancer cells.
2. Eye Health – The antioxidant properties of strawberries may help prevent cataracts. Strawberries also provide ample vitamin C, which protects against the sun’s harsh ultraviolet rays and plays an important role in protecting and improving the cornea and retina of the eye.
3. Maternal Health – The folic acid in strawberries is a good source of B vitamins recommended for women who are pregnant or trying to become pregnant. Folic acid is also needed early in pregnancy to help develop the baby’s brain, skull, and spinal cord, and the folic acid in strawberries helps prevent certain birth defects, such as spina bifida.
4. Heart Health – Strawberries are rich in heart-healthy antioxidants such as ellagic acid and flavonoids such as anthocyanins, catechins, quercetin and kaempferol. These phenolic compounds help lower the risk of cardiovascular disease by inhibiting the formation of total and LDL cholesterol. Anthocyanins also help relax blood vessels, lowering blood pressure and preventing cardiovascular problems.
5. Improves brain function – Strawberries are rich in iodine, vitamin C, and phytochemicals that help maintain proper functioning of the nervous system. Potassium, also found in strawberries, has been linked to improved cognitive function by increasing blood flow to the brain. Additionally, the higher the intake of strawberry flavonoids, the lower the rate of cognitive decline in the elderly.
6. Skin Health – Naturally, being so diverse and rich in vitamins is great for skin health. It can prevent skin aging and keep it elastic at all times, and vitamin C can help with skin regeneration by promoting collagen production.

Storage Method

Strawberries have soft flesh and easily become soft when in contact with outside air, so they must be stored in an appropriate manner. Place a paper towel in an airtight container and store with the top facing down. It is also recommended to be refrigerated at a temperature of 4℃~0℃.

Season

Although many people think of it as winter, the original season for strawberries is from April to June. However, strawberries harvested in winter using house-growing techniques have a higher sugar content, so strawberries are most consumed from November to February.

Side Effect

1. Diarrhea and abdominal pain – Strawberries are a cold food, so if people with cold nature consume too much, they may experience side effects such as diarrhea.
2. Interference with absorption of blood coagulants – People with diseases related to blood clotting should be careful when consuming too much strawberry as the risk of bruising or bleeding may increase.
3. Caution on intake by infants – Babies before their first birthday should be careful when consuming strawberries as they may develop allergic symptoms due to toxic substances in the seeds.

References

🔹Health: 6 Health Benefits of Strawberries
🔹BestHealth: 10 Surprising Ways Strawberries Can Benefit Your Health
🔹MedicalNewsToday: Strawberries: Benefits, nutrition, and risks