Strawberry

Strawberry Strawberries, native to the Mediterranean, have been enjoyed for well over 2,000 years. While originally a wild plant, strawberries are widely cultivated around the world today. In fact, wild varieties were also discovered in the New World, where Native Americans were known to consume this wild fruit before the Europeans arrived. Strawberries are unique since the seeds are propagated on the outer surface of the fruit, which most likely explains is discovery in both Europe and North America. The Romans discovered that strawberries relieved symptoms of melancholy, fainting, inflammation, fever, kidney stones, gout and diseases of the blood and liver. Today, California remains one of the major producers of strawberries in the world, with over 25,000 tons of the fruit being produced each year.

Key Nutrients

Strawberries provide an excellent source of vitamin C and vitamin K and flavonoids. Strawberries are also a great source of dietary fiber and are low in both saturated and unsaturated fat.

Health Benefits

Vitamin C – Regular consumption of foods rich in vitamin C helps the body develop resistance against infections and scavenges harmful, pro-inflammatory free radicals. Vitamin C also helps to prevent respiratory problems such as asthma and lung cancer. Vitamin C has been shown to lower blood pressure, and therefore lessen the probability of hypertension.

Vitamin K – Vitamin-K plays an important role in bone metabolism by promoting osteotrophic activity in bone cells. Vitamin K also acts to clot open wounds and prevent excessive bleeding. Healthy vitamin K levels lower the release of the glycoprotein interleukin-6, a marker of inflammation within the body.

Flavonoids – Flavonoids are a class of antioxidants which help to promote healthy cell growth and reduce inflammation. They are also a powerful class of molecules when it comes to reducing the risk of certain cancers.

Season

Strawberries are in season from late Spring to mid-Summer. Since commercial varieties exist, you can find this fruit year round in your supermarket.

Nutrition Information

Per 1 cup (144 grams):

Calories (cKal): 46
Protein (grams): .96
Total Fat (grams): .43
Carbohydrates (grams): 11.06
Fiber (grams): 2.9

Buying and Storing

When buying strawberries, make sure the fruit is firm to the touch and free of blemishes. When storing at home, make sure to store in the refrigerator for up to five days.

Best Way to Add to Diet

Strawberries go well with flavored yogurt, pancakes, waffles or your favorite breakfast cereal. Add a few strawberries to a salad for a sweet and sour taste. Finally, this fruit makes a great raw garniture to any dessert plate.