Do you have a mild-mannered diet or is there a team of superfoods in your fridge? Superfoods are an important part of a healthy diet, as they tend to be a potent source of nutrients and other health benefits that support our immune systems, brain, and other vital organs. One of the most popular and frequently consumed members of the superfoods team is berries: their positive influence on our health is much greater than their small sizes would suggest. One berry in particular, the vibrantly colored strawberry, shines as bright in the healthy department as it does in its signature red hue.
Packed With Vitamins & Minerals
Strawberries are a sweet treat that do a lot more than satisfy your sweet tooth. Strawberries contain a bevy of vitamins and minerals that include:
- Calcium
- Iron
- Magnesium
- Vitamin C
- Potassium
- Protein
- Phosphorus
- Folate
- Vitamin A
They also contain a variety of phytochemicals, which are plant compounds that boost our health. These compounds include antioxidants and flavonoids (anthocyanins, quercetin, kaempferol, and catechin).
A Rich Source of Ellagic Acid
Strawberries are dense with antioxidants, but one antioxidant in particular gives this bold red fruit an extra strong kick in the healthy department: ellagic acid. A type of polyphenol (plant-based) antioxidant found in some fruits, nuts, and alcoholic beverages like wine and whiskey, ellagic acid has anti-inflammatory properties. Studies have found that ellagic acid can help slow down the progression of chronic diseases that include diabetes, cognitive decline, heart disease, and cancer. Ellagic acid also has protective properties for many of our vital organs: the liver, kidneys, and skin.
Low Sugar Content
Perhaps one of the most surprising things about strawberries is how they contain less sugar than most other fruits. Despite their intensely sweet taste, strawberries have lower levels of natural sugar fructose compared to other fruits. That makes them a safe snack for people who are trying to lose weight or lower their sugar intake.
Memory Protector
The high antioxidant contentg in strawberries can help keep you sharp as you age. Research has shown that people who regularly eat antioxidant-dense fruits like strawberries and cherries display lower rates of memory loss, cognitive decline, dementia, and Alzheimer’s disease as they get older. It’s believed that the anti-inflammatory properties of the fruit play a large role in this, as they ensure that the brain gets plenty of blood and oxygen to stay nimble and refreshed.
Good for Gut Health
Another benefit offered by the antioxidants in strawberries is that they can have a positive impact on your gut biome. Studies have found that anthocyanins can have prebiotic properties that can help boost the growth of “good” gut bacteria in our bodies. These gut bacteria play a very important role in both our digestion and our overall immune function. Good gut bacteria break down complex fibers and carbohydrates that your body can't digest on their own; they also keep our bowel movements regular.
Article by Austin Brietta
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