In honor of National Strawberry Shortcake Day celebrated on June 14, we thought we’d share some healthy facts about strawberries that may just make you love this sweet and delicious fruit even more. Whether you need a delicious snack or want to add garden fresh or freeze dried strawberries to your cereal or salad, you will surely get a dose of goodness.
Strawberries and Cholesterol
Heart disease impacts more than a half-a-million lives every year in the United States alone and experts agree poor diet is one of the key contributing factors. Studies suggest the phytonutrients and antioxidants in strawberries can lower bad cholesterol. In addition, their high levels of potassium may help lower blood pressure.
Strawberries and Blood Sugar
Despite their sweet taste, strawberries do not have a negative impact on blood sugar. In fact, strawberries are among the foods recommended for people with blood sugar imbalances or diabetes. The fiber in strawberry fruit also helps the body break down sugars and carbohydrates more effectively.
Strawberries and Vitamin C
When there’s talk of vitamin C, oranges are typically the first fruit to be mentioned; however, a smaller amount of strawberry (in ounces) actually provides a more potent quantity of vitamin C. That means strawberries are great for boosting your immune system or supporting the health of your eyes and skin. If you want to learn more about the vitamins contained in strawberries, check out the Nutrition Fact Sheet for our freeze dried strawberries.
Strawberries and Arthritis
Anthocyanin is among the many benefits of red fruits. Anthocyanins are flavonoids that give strawberries their deep ruby color. This compound also acts as a powerful antioxidant with anti-inflammatory properties. Furthermore, research shows that strawberries may reduce levels of C-reactive protein (CRP), a compound that contributes to arthritic inflammation.
The Benefits of Dried Fruits and Berries
If you want to take the nutritional benefits of strawberries with you wherever you go, freeze dried fruit is an excellent option. Harmony House offers freeze dried strawberry slices and bulk dried strawberries that are 100% natural and do not contain any added sugars or preservatives. Freeze drying also increases shelf life, so you do not need to worry about your berries spoiling before you have the chance to enjoy them.