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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
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