Gift of Nature "Amazing Health Benefit of Strawberrie"

Fragrantly sweet strawberries are the most popular type of berry fruit in the world. Although they have become increasingly available year-round, they are at the peak of their

season from April through July when they are the most delicious and most abundant.

 While there are more than 600 varieties of strawberries that differ in flavor, size and texture, one can usually identify a strawberry by its red flesh that has small seedspiercing its surface, and a small, regal, green leafy cap and stem that adorn its crown.

Most commercially grown strawberries come from the genus-species Fragaria ananassa. Cultivation of this particular genus-species has been taking place for nearly 300 years. Much older still, however, are wild strawberries that typically below to the genus-species Fragaria vesca. Wild strawberries are known to have existed for more than 2,000 years. While

typically smaller in size than cultivated strawberries, wild strawberries often feature a

more intense flavor. In the U.S., commercial strawberry production is largely limited to the

coastal and southern inland regions of California and to the East Coast, where Florida

production becomes especially important during the winter months. Fragaria virginiana is a

popular genus-species of strawberry grown in the U.S. along side of the genus-species

Fragaria ananassa.

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.

Strawberries, fresh 1.00 cup (144.00 grams) Calories: 46.08 GI: low

Nutrient%                     Daily Value

 vitamin C            112.8%

 manganese            28%

 fiber                11.5%

 folate                8.6%

 iodine                8.6%

 copper                7.7%

 potassium            6.2%

 biotin                  5.2%

 phosphorus            4.9%

 magnesium            4.6%

 vitamin B6            4.1%

 tryptophan            3.8%

 omega-3 fats            3.7%

Tips for Preparing and Cooking

Tips for Preparing Strawberries

Since they are very perishable, strawberries should not be washed until right before eating

or using in a recipe. Do not remove their caps and stems until after you have gently washed

the berries under cold running water and patted them dry. This will prevent them from

absorbing excess water, which can degrade strawberries' texture and flavor. To remove the

stems, caps and white hull, simply pinch these off with your fingers or use a paring knife.

Despite their perishable nature, strawberries do appear to hold up well for a day or two in

fruit salad if properly stored and chilled. This is good news for those of us who are

pressed for time but love fresh fruit salad. And who doesn't since it's a perfect addition

to any meal and makes a great snack or dessert?

Healthiest Way of Preparing Strawberries

Strawberries retain their maximum amount of nutrients and their maximum taste when they are

enjoyed fresh and not prepared in a cooked recipe. That is because their nutrients—including

vitamins, antioxidants, and enzymes—are unable to withstand the temperature (350°F/175°C)

used in baking.

How to Enjoy

A Few Quick Serving Ideas

Add sliced strawberries to mixed green salad.

Layer sliced strawberries, whole blueberries and plain yogurt in a wine glass to make a

parfait dessert.

Blend strawberries with a little bit of orange juice and use as a refreshing coulis

sauce.

Add strawberries to breakfast shakes to give them a more vibrant taste and texture.

Source:
http://www.care2.com/greenliving/10-super-health-benefits-of-strawberries.html
http://www.whfoods.com/genpage.php?tname=foodspice&dbid=32#descr