Strawberries

Strawberries are an excellent source of antioxidants which help protect our cells and assist in preventing possible damage from free radicals. Strawberries are also a good source of dietary fiber and nutrients, including Iodine and Vitamin C.

The pigment which gives strawberries their deep red colour is due to high amounts of the antioxidants called anthocyanins and ellagitannins. The anthocyanins have a useful function in that they encourage the production of useful prostoglandins that work with our immune system to fight infection. While at the same time they block the production of inflammatory prostoglandins that contribute to inflammatory diseases like cancer and cardiovascular conditions.

Strawberries are also one of the top sources of Iodine which is essential for the functioning of our thyroid gland which is the key regulator of our metabolism. The thyroid gland contributes to controlling functions such as the utilisation of fat from storage for energy, and how much calcium we need to be absorbing and retaining from our food. Iodine is added to table salt to prevent potential deficiencies, however there are reliable food sources including strawberries.

One cup of strawberries provides the recommended daily intake of Vitamin C. When compared with citrus fruits, strawberries have a higher vitamin C content when compared by weight. Wholefoods, such as strawberries, are often argued as a more reliable source of nutrients than supplements because they contain other enzymes and nutrients that assist in absorption and utilisation of the vitamin. In the case of strawberries, they contain important flavonoids which are considered by many to be essential for the functions of vitamin C, assisting its absorption and protecting it from oxidation.
 

Antioxidants that protect cells from cellular damage may be available as soon as one hour of consuming strawberries. To ensure the vitamin C content is maximised strawberries are best eaten fresh and whole.

Information supplied by Steph Askeur
Fresh-cut enthusiast