Eat Me: Strawberry — tastes so good, does so much

Strawberry is a delicious heart-shaped seeded fruit with red flesh.

It can be consumed raw, blended with juice, for a smoothie or cooked in certain recipes. It has many varieties and boasts of several benefits.

Strawberry is one of the most popular berry fruits in the world and has an average of 200 seeds per fruit.

Here are some of its health benefits.

Anti-ageing properties 

Strawberries contain vitamin C which boosts collagen production, tones the skin, and has an anti-ageing effect.

Studies have also shown that its extract is abundant in anthocyanins and protects against ultraviolet radiation.

Eyecare

Strawberry consumption can prevent eye conditions like dry eyes, degeneration of the optic nerves, macular degeneration, vision defects, and increased susceptibility to infections.

Antioxidants in strawberries, such as flavonoids, phenolic phytochemicals, and ellagic acid, can help avoid almost all eye problems because they protect against free radical scavenging activity.

Reduces hypertension

Because of its potassium and magnesium content, strawberries reduce hypertension and the rigidity of arteries and blood vessels.

This eases the flow of blood to various parts of the body and keeps them functioning at their full potential.

Prevents birth defects

Folic acid in strawberries is a necessary nutrient, especially during pregnancy, as it helps in preventing birth defects.

It is also important for ensuring optimal health during pregnancy.

Constipation

Due to its high fibre content, strawberry helps to boost digestion and prevent constipation.

It also prevents diverticulitis, an inflammation of the digestive tract which can cause fever and nausea.

Lowers risk of diabetes

Studies have shown that eating strawberries, which have a low glycemic index, can lower the risk of developing type 2 diabetes.

Additionally, another study showed that eating strawberries improved glycemic control among diabetics.