How Strawberries can improve your health

Image by backofthenapkin via Flickr

Red, ripe and delicious strawberries.  The strawberry is one of the summertime's most popular fruits.  Recipes including this delightfully, red and sometimes tart fruit abound this time of year.  And, did you know that the more strawberries you eat, the more you may be improving your overall health?

Let's take a look at the health information about strawberries.

The history of the strawberry

Strawberries are a fragrant, red colored gem of a fruit that grows close to the ground. Its history dates back 2,000 years with a variety of breeds in many parts of the world.

 Strawberries contain large amounts of dietary fiber and vitamins C, K, B6, pantothenic acid, iodine, antioxidants and biotin.

The use of strawberries for therapeutic purposes dates back throughout its history of being eaten.  American Indians used it for treatment of stomach pain and diarrhea

Strawberries and its use in illness


Cancer


Strawberries are high in ellagic acid as well as are many other berries.  Ellagic acid provides protection against breast, esophagus, skin, colon, prostate and pancreatic cancer.


Brain and neurological diseases

The antioxidant activity may be beneficial in reversing neuronal and behavior aging.  Due to this, strawberries may be beneficial in slowing the onset and progression of Alzheimer's disease.
 
Cardiovascular Disease

Strawberries have also been linked with positive effects on the blood vessels, platelets (important in clotting) and lipoproteins.  This means it can reduce the risk of coronary heart disease.

In summary

For a health benefits and delightful summer time desserts and snacks, the strawberry is a real winner.

Source:

"Health benefits of strawberries" www.elements4health.com