Strawberries improve memory
According to recent studies, the consumption of strawberries slows down the aging process of the brain, which means it prolongs its functional life, allowing us to remain sane and strong memory as long as possible. Interestingly, research shows that eating strawberries daily improves short-term memory. These findings are important in light of the fact that the deterioration in the ability to remember recent events is associated with the onset of Alzheimer's disease.
Strawberries improve vision
Ripe red strawberries are good not only for memory, but also for vision. Numerous studies confirm that daily consumption of strawberries prevents the development of macular degeneration of the retina, cataracts, dry eyes, progressive blindness, and other problems associated with age-related tissue changes. The unique biochemical composition of berries allows not only to prevent the appearance of many diseases leading to visual impairment, but also contributes to the progressive treatment of existing ailments.
Strawberries are (very) rich in antioxidants
To begin with, let us recall what these same antioxidants are. Antioxidants or preservatives, as they are also called, are substances that prevent the destructive effect of active oxygen on the cells of the body. Antioxidants protect the body from premature aging and serious diseases.
Scientists note that strawberries contain a large amount of phenolic compounds - bioflavonoids, which have pronounced antioxidant properties. Eating strawberries daily has been shown to increase the body's ability to resist free radicals. However, there is one significant nuance to consider: not all strawberries are equally useful. Bright, scarlet, with white "bottoms" berries are better to set aside for jam, they have much less antioxidant substances than their burgundy, almost black counterparts. In this case, the color is of great importance: the darker the berry, the healthier it is.
Strawberries are a source of ellagic acid
Ellagic acid is a cell cycle regulator and is most commonly found in fruit, nut and berry extracts. The substance is best known for its ability to stop the mutation of cancer cells. Among all products in terms of the content of ellagic acid, strawberries occupy an honorable third place. In addition to the fact that the substance is able to suppress tumor processes, it also helps to fight free radicals, has an anti-inflammatory effect, has a positive effect on hematopoietic processes, and also strengthens the immune system, protecting it from external misfortunes.
Strawberries are a rich source of vitamin C
It is generally accepted that the main sources of vitamin C or ascorbic acid are lemons, oranges and, in extreme cases, garlic. Meanwhile, strawberries are a much more reliable source of this substance: a handful of these berries contains more vitamin C than one orange. True, it should be borne in mind that only dark ripe strawberries grown under the bright sun, and not in a greenhouse, can boast of such wealth. Interestingly, frozen strawberries will retain this vitamin in almost the same amount as in fresh ones. But there is no reason to hope for jams and preserves - the high temperature destroys the vitamin and there are no nutrients left in the sweet addition to tea.
Strawberries for cancer prevention
Today, hundreds of studies are conducted every year to study cancer and methods of its prevention. Some of them show that regular consumption of a number of certain foods can help reduce the chances of developing cancer. You may notice that strawberries are incorrectly registered on this list. Due to its high concentration of vitamin C, ellagic acid, anthocyanin, kaempferol and other beneficial substances, this berry can prevent the development of some forms of cancer. Among the recent studies supporting this property of strawberries is the work of the Ohio University Cancer Research Center.
Strawberries are good for your figure
First, the sweet berry is low in calories. There are only 33 kilocalories per 100 grams, which, by the way, are burned in just a few minutes of active running. Secondly, it has a low glycemic index, which means it prevents the accumulation of fat. Thirdly, it contains substances that help burn fat. According to some reports, the effectiveness of the chosen diet increased by 24% in those who included in it daily consumption of strawberries. For this effect, thanks are anthocyanin, which is abundant in the berry. So that we throw doubts and lean on strawberries.
Strawberries Normalize Blood Sugar Levels
Strawberries are one of those sweet berries that diabetics can eat. Due to its unique composition in all respects, as well as its high level of phytonutrients, it does not contribute to a sharp increase in blood sugar levels and also slows down the absorption of sugars. Because of this, it is also recommended for people who are at high risk for diabetes. It is believed that this berry is an excellent preventive measure.
Strawberries are good for the heart
It is proven that these red berries reduce the risk of occurrence and development of numerous cardiovascular diseases. As we said, strawberries are rich in various vitamins and antioxidants, but in this case, it is much more important that deposits of magnesium and potassium are also found in ripe berries. The latter play an important role in normalizing blood pressure, as well as preventing fluid stagnation, which leads to edema, both visible externally and those that can form on internal organs.
Strawberries are indicated for allergy sufferers
Surprisingly, such a controversial at first glance berry is exactly what is recommended for people suffering from various types of allergies. It would seem that ripe, aromatic, with a bright taste of the years should be kept away from people with similar problems. But no, because of its unique biochemical composition, strawberries suppress inflammation and certain biochemical reactions associated with the manifestation of allergies.
In addition, strawberries are shown to expectant mothers. Studies show that if a woman ate strawberries during pregnancy, the risk of developing an allergy to them in her baby will be minimal.
Photo: Getty Images
Related materials
- 8 surprising (but true) facts about watermelon
- Berries to try this summer
- How to make a traditional English breakfast: a recipe with a story (and no oatmeal)
- Hug for health: everything you need to know about the benefits of hugs