Fruit is an important part of a balanced diet because they contain a variety of vitamins and minerals. Eating more fruit can help reduce the risk of diseases, high blood pressure and even some cancers. There are many ways to get your daily dose of fruit, and strawberries are one of the best choices. Strawberries have a ton of health benefits, and whether you’re eating them or rubbing them onto your teeth, they should definitely become part of your everyday life. Here are 18 reasons to make strawberries your new go-to fruit.
1. They’re filled with antioxidants
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Strawberries are one of the highest concentrated antioxidant foods. Antioxidants are important because they help protect the cells against the effects of diseases. You should always focus on keeping your body filled with antioxidants because they’re the first line of defense to keep you healthy.
2. They naturally whiten teeth
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Strawberries contain malic acid, which is known as a natural enamel whitener. You can mash up strawberries, mix it with baking soda and apply it to your teeth with a toothbrush to make a DIY teeth whitener. Stop wasting your money on Crest White Strips and use some strawberries instead.
3. They’re a good source of Vitamin C
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Everyone always associates the need for Vitamin C with eating oranges, but in reality, strawberries are a better alternative. One cup of strawberries contains approximately 84.7 mg of Vitamin C, while one orange only contains about 70 mg. You’ll be boosting your immune system while eating a sweet, tasty snack. Next time you feel that cold coming on, reach for the strawberries instead and you’ll be good to go.
4. They promote healthy hair
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Anyone that has dry and damaged hair can tell you that no matter how many treatments the hairdresser suggests, nothing seems to work well. If you’re sick of trying chemical treatments, mash up some strawberries, add in tea tree oil and apply it to your entire scalp during your regular shower routine. You’ll be left with silky, shiny, dandruff-free hair in no time.
5. Strawberries can increase your energy
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The best way to increase your energy level naturally is by eating nutrient-rich foods. The natural sugars and carbohydrates found in strawberries (and these other five foods) will keep you feeling energized all day.
6. They help burn fat
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Strawberries contain anthocyanins, which promote the burning of stored fat. Also, they contain a nitrogen compound that helps blood flow and oxygen circulation in the body, which is necessary for weight loss to occur. Who knew that adding strawberries to your diet could help you shed those few pounds you’ve been trying to? After you eat some berries, try out these workouts to keep the burn going.
7. They help regulate blood sugar
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Strawberries are often recommended for diabetics because they have been found to cause a significant reduction in blood sugar spikes. While they are often thought of as too sugary, they actually are high in fiber, water and low in calories, which helps prevent you from feeling hungry after snacking.
8. They cleanse your skin and help prevent acne
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Strawberries contain alpha-hydroxy acid, salicylic acid and ellagic acid, which are all important for skincare. Alpha-hydroxy acid helps eliminate dead skin cells and cleanse, while salicylic and ellagic acids help rejuvenate skin and tighten pores to prevent breakouts. Next time you’re in need of a cleanse, try these DIY face masks at home.
9. They promote eye health
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The antioxidants found in this fruit can help prevent cataracts to leave you seeing clearly for longer. Adding one serving a day will go a long way to help keep your eyes young and healthy. Try out this smoothie bowl when you want to switch up your breakfast and get the benefits of this amazing fruit.
10. They’re high in fiber
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Strawberries provide about 3 grams of fiber per serving, which is approximately 15% of the amount of fiber a person should consume. Fiber is important because it helps improve digestive health while preventing heart disease and diabetes. If you’re someone who consistently doesn’t get enough fiber, read this.
11. Strawberries promote bone health
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The potassium, Vitamin K and magnesium found in these berries are extremely important for bone strength. As you get older, so do your bones, but by eating more strawberries, can help to keep your bones strong and healthy for longer.
12. They’re versatile
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No matter what meal of the day it is, you can always find a use for strawberries. They go great in salads, sandwiches, dips, and smoothies, but most importantly, are one of the best ingredients for dessert. You can find a use for them regardless of what you’re in the mood for, which makes it super easy to add them in to your daily diet.
13. They help prevent high blood pressure
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The potassium and magnesium found in strawberries are helpful in lowering blood pressure, which is mainly caused by sodium. The properties of potassium can help oxygenation of the blood and keep it flowing while helping arteries and vessels reach their full functional potential. If you’re feeling stressed and your blood pressure is spiking, make sure you’re eating strawberries daily.
14. They’re low in calories
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One cup of fresh berries only contains about 50 calories, so it’s the perfect snack. Also, strawberries tend to satisfy your sweet tooth when you’re trying to be healthy. If plain strawberries aren’t good enough, then use them to make this yummy, no-bake dessert.
15. They can help you get drunk
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While the fruit itself won’t actually get you drunk, they’re great to mix with alcoholic drinks. You can’t go wrong, whether you’re soaking them directly to make a boozy treat or using them to make drinks.
16. Strawberries increase brain function
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These berries are filled with phytochemicals and iodine, which help to rejuvenate brain function and the central nervous system. This makes strawberries a “smart food” that will help your brain stay young for longer. Next time you’re looking for study snacks, make sure to add strawberries into the mix.
17. They help fight cancer
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Quercetin is a flavonol found in strawberries that’s known to self-destruct cancer cells in the body. Eating strawberries can help prevent cancer of the lung, skin, esophagus, breast and bladder. If you are adding them to your diet for this purpose, make sure to only buy organic. Every day we hear of something new that may be causing cancer, so at least by eating right you may be able to reduce this risk.
18. Strawberries are currently in season
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Strawberries are in season from April to August, making them the perfect summer fruit. Being in season means that they have the highest nutritional value and tend to be cheaper to buy. When you’re bored at home this summer and looking for new recipes to try, check out these strawberry-filled options.