Known for their delicious flavor and freshness, strawberries are more than just a treat for the palate. A new study by researchers at the University of California, Davis, funded by the California Strawberry Commission, has revealed that these fruits have a significant impact on cardiometabolic health, especially in people at higher risk of developing heart disease. The study is based on the review of 47 clinical trials and 13 observational studies, and confirms that consuming strawberries regularly can improve cardiovascular and brain health.
Key nutritional properties of strawberries
Strawberries are very low-energy fruits, since their main component is water. Apart from this, they contain carbohydrates in a moderate proportion, mainly fructose, glucose and xylitol, which represent approximately 7% of their weight. They are also an excellent source of fiber and vitamins, highlighting their high vitamin C content. In fact, a 150 gram serving of strawberries contains 86 mg of this vitamin, even surpassing oranges.which in a medium serving (225 grams) offers 82 mg. With these figures, both strawberries and oranges largely meet the recommended daily intakes of vitamin C (60 mg).
As for minerals, strawberries stand out for their content of iron, iodine, calcium, phosphorus, magnesium and potassium. The latter, together with their low sodium content, makes strawberries ideal for people with high blood pressure. Furthermore, they have a high antioxidant capacitywhich makes them a very beneficial fruit for general health.
The benefits for heart health
One of the most important findings of this study is the ability of strawberries to improve cardiovascular health. Researchers observed that regular consumption of strawberries can help reduce LDL cholesterol levels (known as “bad cholesterol”) and triglycerides, while decreasing systemic inflammation, a major risk factor for heart disease. This results in an improvement in lipid metabolism and a reduction in the risk of suffering from cardiovascular diseases.
According to Dr. Roberta Holt, the study’s lead researcher, “Strawberries are rich in phytonutrients that benefit heart health. Our review found that regular consumption of strawberries not only lowers cholesterol, but also helps reduce inflammation.”
To obtain these benefits, it is recommended to consume between one and four cups of strawberries a day, which is equivalent to between 100 and 450 grams daily. This amount is enough to make the most of the nutrients and antioxidant compounds present in strawberries.
Improved brain health
The study not only highlights the benefits for heart health, but also for the brain. Researchers found that consuming strawberries could delay cognitive decline and protect against dementia. This is due to its content of flavonoids, compounds that act against oxidative stressone of the factors that contribute to brain aging. Strawberries may also improve cognitive function, helping to keep the brain active and healthy as you age.
In short, for both heart and brain health, strawberries are emerging as a food with beneficial properties that go beyond their flavor. Incorporating them into the daily diet, whether fresh, frozen or freeze-dried, can be an effective strategy to reduce risks associated with cardiovascular and neurodegenerative diseases.
#fruit #vitamin #orange #great #antioxidant #power #reduces #cholesterol
