All About Strawberries
By Amy Silva
Strawberries are a delicious fruit that are good for your health and make a great addition to nearly any diet. They're even a good choice for those with diabetes because they can help level blood sugar. Strawberries are fairly affordable but even more so when they're in season. While they can be found at nearly every grocery store, consider shopping at a local farmers market or going to a strawberry farm and picking your own, if you live in the northern hemisphere where strawberries are grown. The ways in which you can cook, bake or eat strawberries is nearly endless.
About Strawberries
Different varieties of strawberries are grown around the world in countries located in northern areas. Some may be surprised to learn that strawberries are part of the rose family, as are some other fruits. Two more interesting facts are that the strawberry isn't actually a berry, and it's the seeds that are the fruit of the plant.
Health Benefits of Strawberries
Strawberries contain antioxidants and are an anti-inflammatory food. They have important vitamins and minerals, such as potassium, calcium, iron, Vitamin C, manganese and folic acid. They also contain fiber which is important for digestive health and can aid in weight management. Strawberries may prevent certain types of cancer and reduce the risk of stroke and heart attack. Other health benefits include potentially lowering inflammation and blood pressure.
Ways to Use Strawberries
Making a puree or sauce using strawberries allows you to add the sweet flavor without having to use chunks or whole berries in certain recipes. These can be drizzled on top of many foods, including ice cream and pancakes, and can even be spread on a baking sheet and baked until it turns into fruit leather.
- Breakfast - Strawberries can be added to breakfast foods such as pancakes, muffins, cereals and yogurt. They can be enjoyed as a side to your breakfast and can replace your orange juice as the fruit portion of your meal.
- Snacks - Plain strawberries make a great snack by themselves but there are other ways to eat them without having to make dessert. They can be frozen and added to fruit smoothies or dried to replace sugary candy.
- Desserts - Strawberries in any form can be added to different desserts such as cake, ice cream, popsicles, candies and gummies.
A diet that consists of fruit, such as strawberries, may lower your risk of certain diseases. They're good for your health because of their nutritional content and can be added to various meals or enjoyed as a snack on their own.
To learn more about your health, wellness and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Midlothian, Va.