Four Fantastic Reasons to Scoff Strawberries

Now that Wimbledon’s in full swing, tucking into a bowl of strawberries seems to be the obvious thing to do this week. This delicious fruit has a number of health benefits that you may not be aware of, so get yourself down to your local pick-your-own farm and make the most of the short strawberry season.

1. If you suffer from hay fever, then strawberries could be nature’s way of offering a helping hand. Strawberries contain a plant compound called quercetin which has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. A study in Japan found that quercetin was associated with a 96% decrease in histamine amongst seasonal allergy sufferers, so a bowl of strawberries might just help calm your symptoms, as well as being a tasty dessert.
2. Red berries such as strawberries and raspberries are rich in ellagic acid which research has shown to have anti-cancer properties. A study in China published in 2012 found that ellagic acid inhibited the development of cancer cells by directly exercising a protective effect on healthy cells and also by stimulating the antioxidant systems of the healthy cells.
3. Strawberries are a fantastic source of vitamin C, which is good for a lot more than just helping you get over coughs and colds. It’s a powerful antioxidant which is held to have anti-cancer properties. It’s vital for effective functioning of a major detoxification pathway in the liver. Vitamin C helps to repair and regenerate blood vessels and can play a key part in preventing heart disease. It produces collagen, keeping skin, bones and joints healthy and is also involved in regulating the adrenal stress response.
4. Strawberries also contain manganese which works in synergy with vitamin C to form healthy bones, cartilage and tissue. It has a protective effect and plays a key role in reproduction, promoting the development of healthy DNA and reducing cell damage. Manganese also helps to support the nervous system, so soothe yourself after a long day with a calming bowl of strawberries.

As you can see, the humble strawberry has got a lot going for it, so you can enjoy your next bowl of strawberries while feeling just a tiny bit smug that you’re looking after your health at the same time.