Strawberry is a plant belonging to the rosaceae family with more than twenty species. Among the species, it is the garden strawberry that is widely known and consumed. Containing high amounts of calcium, phosphorus, iron, vitamins A and B, strawberries are also rich in vitamin C and other antioxidants that help reduce the risk of serious health problems such as cancer, diabetes, stroke and heart disease.
Strawberry, one of the favorite summer fruits, is frequently used in jam, cake, ice cream and fruit juice. It can also be consumed by adding to yogurt and salads in terms of healthy nutrition.
What are the Health Benefits of Strawberries?
Strawberries, like other fruits, are rich in vitamins, minerals, fiber and compounds with antioxidant properties. The benefits of strawberries , which can help prevent various conditions as part of a nutritious diet, can be listed as follows:
Protects Heart Health
Higher than normal triglyceride levels in the blood can increase the risk of heart disease. Regular and moderate consumption of strawberries helps to prevent heart disease by lowering triglyceride levels.
Strengthens the Immune System
The immune system protects the body against diseases by forming the body's defense mechanism. Not getting enough vitamin C weakens the immune system and leads to the emergence of diseases. Strawberry prevents the formation of diseases by supporting the immune system with its strong vitamin C content.
Supports Brain Health
With age, the brain can lose some of its mental acuity. The antioxidants in this fruit prevent cognitive decline and protect the brain's ability to think and process. It can also prevent the emergence of serious diseases such as Alzheimer's by supporting memory.
Stabilizes Blood Sugar
Glucose is sugar in the blood. If glucose levels are high, diseases such as diabetes and heart disease may occur. When consumed regularly and in moderation, it supports insulin release in the body and regulates blood sugar.
Reduces Inflammation
Unhealthy eating habits, smoking and sedentary life lead to inflammation in the body. The antioxidant substances in strawberries prevent the formation of inflammation and support the healing of existing inflammation.
Protective Against Cancer
Strawberries have phytochemicals, anticancer and antioxidant properties. The phytochemicals contained in strawberries prevent the formation of cancer cells and prevent the spread of existing cancer cells.
Prevents Cell Damage
It balances blood sugar by supporting the release of insulin in the body with the anthocyanin it contains. It protects the body against cancer and viral diseases by preventing damage to cells.
Regulates the Digestive System
Thanks to the high fiber it contains, the benefits of strawberries consumed regularly include improving the digestive system and preventing constipation.
What are the harms and side effects of strawberries?
Although strawberries are generally well tolerated by the body, they can cause allergies, especially in children. Strawberries contain pollen, also known as pollen-related food allergy, which can cause side effects in individuals who are sensitive to birch pollen or apples. If you experience itching or tingling in the mouth, hives, headache, swelling of the lips, face, tongue or throat, and breathing problems after consumption, you should consult a doctor immediately.
Benefits of Strawberry Leaf
Most people throw away the leaves when eating strawberries, but strawberry leaves have many health benefits. These leaves can be consumed fresh or dried as smoothies or herbal tea, and can also be used in salads. The benefits of strawberry leaves can be listed as follows:
- It protects heart health with its antioxidant and antimicrobial properties and balances the sugar level in the blood.
- With its abundant vitamin C content, it strengthens the immune system and prevents the formation of diseases. It also increases the healing rate of wounds in the body.
- The anthocyanin substances in it protect against cardiovascular diseases by balancing cholesterol levels. It also has a protective effect against cancer by preventing damage to cells.
- Strawberry, which has plenty of fiber in its leaves, facilitates digestion and prevents disorders such as constipation.