Awesome Benefits of Strawberries

Strawberries are often called nature’s candy: At their peak, they’re as sweet as any sugary treat! But unlike a box of candy, they contain three grams of fiber per serving, which helps keep your blood sugar levels stable (aka, you’re less likely to get hangry). You’re getting fiber, so your blood sugar will not spike as quickly compared to a cup of soda. Strawberries are rich in fiber and vitamin C, reduce heart disease and cancer risk. Plus, strawberries are a good source of potassium.

A study from the Annals of Neurology found that regularly eating strawberries may slow cognitive issues over time, which the researchers attributed to high levels of flavonoids (aka, the anti-inflammatory substances found in plants). It’s similar effect as the cardiovascular studies have found, antioxidants have an effect on all blood vessels, and a healthy blood flow is essential to good brain health.

When you think of foods high in vitamin C, oranges probably come to mind—but strawberries are also a great source of this antioxidant, with 100 percent of your daily requirement in just one cup of sliced berries. Foods rich in vitamin C can help boost your immunity, especially during cold and flu season. However, keep in mind that research suggests that vitamin C can’t prevent the common cold, but it may reduce its severity and duration. Vitamin C is also water soluble vitamin which needs to be replaced into the body daily.

Keep in mind that eating whole strawberries and drinking them in juice form is not the same thing. When the juice is extracted, the fiber has been taken out, and that has a different effect. Without the fiber, strawberry juice may actually spike your blood sugar levels instead of stabilizing them.

Ready to add more strawberries to your diet? Eat whole strawberries as a quick snack, slice them on top of oatmeal or yogurt, or add them to salads. When strawberries aren’t in season, I recommend adding a dash of balsamic vinegar on top—the acid boosts their sweetness.

Strawberries are super yum!