6 SWEET REASONS TO INDULGE
Welcome back to What’s on the MENU MONDAY everyone. We’ve been discussing so many things recently related to pandemics, staying safe in the age of Covid-19, working from home and social distancing. It’s time to focus on something sweet and delicious that evokes fond memories of summers’ past. And that focus today is the STRAWBERRY.
This luscious juicy fruit is one of the most popular in the world. It’s beautiful to look at, it has a wonderful aroma, and it tastes great in just about any recipe. It’s a summer staple and a familiar friend that makes every family dinner, picnic, and barbeque that much more delicious and memorable.
But, did you know that the strawberry also is one of the most nutritious foods we can eat? It’s rich in healthy benefits and here are 6 of the best.
CANCER PROTECTION
Strawberries contain cancer-fighting antioxidants, including manganese which fights free radicals and reduces cellular inflammation. They’re also packed with phenols like anthocyanin, which also fights inflammation, inhibits the potentially dangerous enzyme cyclooxygenase, and gives the berry its rich red color. This combination of anti-inflammatory and antioxidant agents can help prevent many forms of cancer. And when we add the berry’s high concentration of vitamin C, ellagic acid, folate, flavonoids and kaempferol we have a defense against cancer that’s not only effective but delicious as well.
HEALTHY HEART
The flavonoids, phytonutrients and phenolic agents found in a strawberry are very effective in reducing cholesterol and help improve the function of our blood vessels. The potassium found in the strawberry also helps prevent stroke and heart attack – all of which make this fruit a favorite of heart-health conscious patients and doctors alike.
STRONG BONES
The manganese in strawberries is not only a powerful antioxidant, but an essential nutrient for protecting our bones. It helps build bones while maintaining proper bone structure. And the potassium, vitamin K and magnesium found in this sweet berry keep our bones strong and resilient to fractures.
IMPROVED VISION
The vitamin C in a strawberry also does wonders for our eyes. It protects the eye from harmful UV rays and increases the strength of the lens, the cornea and the retina of the eye. And, with a whopping 136% of the RDA of vitamin C in one cup of strawberries, this fruit also can help prevent the development of cataracts and age-related macular degeneration.
WEIGHT LOSS
Strawberries contain over 13% of our RDA of dietary fiber in every cup. And, fiber is critical to our overall digestive health as it helps us maintain regularity. The ellagic acid and anthocyanins in the berry slow our digestive process and make us feel full so we’re less likely to over-eat. Our blood sugar is stabilized, our metabolism increases and our body fat decreases. Accordingly, with only 43 calories per cup, strawberries are a delicious and nutritious way to maintain a healthy weight.
BEAUTY TREATMENT
From soaps, to lotions, to hair products the strawberry has definitely found its way into the world of beauty and cosmetics. And, with good reason. The vitamin C content of the berry supports the
regeneration of skin cells and the elasticity of the skin so scars, lines and wrinkles can all be improved by consuming strawberries on a daily basis. Vitamin C also improves the texture of our skin leaving it with a healthy glow. Finally, strawberries are great for our smile. The acids help remove stains from our teeth and the manganese not only makes our bones stronger but our teeth as well.
Peak strawberry season runs from May through July. In other words, it’s now! So, make sure you pick up a pint of two on your next trip to the grocery store or farmer’s market. Use them in anything from shakes and smoothies, to pancakes and crepes, pies and cakes, salads and sauces, cereals, yogurts and ice cream, to my personal favorite, strawberry shortcake with whipped cream on top.
See if these dishes don’t take you back to a simpler and more gentle time when the long days of summer were so easily enjoyed and embraced. We could all use a little more comfort right now, and nothing offers comfort like good old-fashioned comfort food.
In closing, thanks again everyone for joining me. Until next time, stay safe, stay strong, stay in GOOD HEALTH and . . .
TAKE THE COURSE AND TAKE CHARGE!
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