Dr. Andrea Middleton - Is It Bad For You? Approved by Dr. Andrea Middleton

Are Strawberries Bad For You?

Also Known As: fragaria


Grade

A


Short answer

Strawberries have been ranked the 27th best food in the United States. Strawberries not only an excellent source of vitamins, antioxidants and sugar, but they even help with allergies and constipation. One thing to be aware of is strawberries tend to have high levels of pesticide residue-- meaning they should thoroughly be rinsed before consumption.

Grade

A


Long answer

Strawberries are full of nutritional value. They contain high levels of vitamin C, potassium, folic acid and fiber. Strawberries also contain vitamin A, magnesium, phosphorous, selenium, calcium, iron, and protein. As a result of that, regular consumption of strawberries has wonderful benefits to your health.

Cardiovascular Disease. Strawberries are rich in flavonoids. A class of flavonoids called anthocyanins significantly reduces the risk of heart disease in young and middle-aged women, by up to 32%. Another class called quercetin is a natural anti-inflammatory.  This helps in reducing the risk of atherosclerosis.  That same flavonoid may even help in cancer prevention. Strawberries are also high in polyphenol. This helps to prevent platelet build-up and reduces one’s blood pressure through anti-inflammatory effects. Studies have also shown that regularly consuming strawberries reduces the levels of an artery-damaging amino acid called homocysteine.  Rich in potassium and fiber, strawberries can also support heart health. In one recent study, for example, high potassium consumption has been linked to the reduction of death due to ischemic heart disease.

Constipation. High in water and fiber content, strawberries are excellent for minimizing constipation. Water not only helps to keep you hydrated, but also helps keep your bowels moving smoothly.

Stroke.  Strawberries are rich in quercetin, kaempferol, and anthocyanins. Studies have shown that these help to reduce the formation of harmful blood clots associated with stroke. A high potassium intake has been linked with a reduced risk of stroke as well.

AllergiesQuercetin found in strawberries has an anti-inflammatory effect. Consumption of strawberries helps to lessen the symptoms of allergies such as a runny nose, hives or watery eyes.


Possible short-term side effects

  • slows blood clotting

Possible long-term side effects

  • may aggravate kidney / bladder stones

Ingredients to be aware of



Benefits

  • great source of countless nutrients
  • anti-inflammatory
  • reduces risk of heart disease and stroke
  • reduces risk of cancer
  • reduces risk of atherosclerosis
  • promotes bright, white teeth
  • helps prevent constipation
  • may lessen allergy symptoms
  • lowers homocysteine levels



Thank you for your feedback!

Written by Healthy Living 35
Published on: 02-19-2016
Last updated: 12-10-2016

Thank you for your feedback!

Written by Healthy Living 35
Published on: 02-19-2016
Last updated: 12-10-2016




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