Strawberry (500g)

Description

Name

Strawberry

Strawberries are part of the red fruit family, known for their sweet and fresh flavor, their antioxidant richness and their low energy value.
Red in color, small in size and oval in shape, strawberries are widely used in their natural form or in the preparation of jams, smoothies and various desserts.
Strawberries are rich in water (91%) and have a low energy value, almost exclusively coming from carbohydrates.
In terms of micronutrients, strawberries are a significant source of vitamin C, folate, potassium, and manganese. In smaller quantities, they also provide iron, phosphorus, magnesium, and vitamin E.

Health benefits of strawberries:

Antioxidants

From a nutritional perspective, the main health benefit of strawberries is related to their antioxidant content, which, when included in the context of a healthy diet and lifestyle, promotes the neutralization of free radicals, potentially playing a preventative role in some pathologies, namely cancer and degenerative diseases.

Among these compounds, anthocyanins, elegitannins and procyanidins stand out, and their content is proportional to their state of ripeness and the intensity of their color.

In addition to these compounds, the presence of vitamin C and vitamin E enhance the antioxidant activity of strawberries.

Indicated for weight loss

Not only because of their low energy value, but also because of their fiber content, strawberries are one of the most interesting foods for those looking to lose weight.

In fact, fiber plays a crucial role in regulating intestinal transit and appetite.

In the case of intestinal transit, fiber promotes the health of intestinal cells, aiding in the formation of stool. Furthermore, it also promotes the regularity of peristaltic bowel movements, making them more regular.

On the other hand, fiber induces satiety, reducing the volume of food consumed in different meals, therefore enhancing weight loss processes.

In this context, you can include strawberries in your snacks/meals, as a complement to main meals or simply as an ingredient in a healthier recipe.

Blood glucose regulation

Not only because of the presence of fiber in their composition, but also because of the phenolic compounds, strawberries promote the maintenance of glycemic stability, prolonging the absorption time of blood glucose.

Indeed, according to some studies, the antioxidants in strawberries appear to help prevent sudden fluctuations in blood glucose levels and, when included in a balanced diet, may help prevent pathological conditions such as type 2 diabetes. However, it's important to note that these studies used small sample sizes, so larger studies are needed to solidify the evidence.

Improved cardiovascular health

Due to their potassium, fiber and antioxidant content, strawberries help improve cardiovascular health and prevent atherosclerosis, strokes and myocardial infarctions.

In fact, along with the anti-inflammatory activity derived from antioxidant compounds, the potassium provided by strawberries helps control and normalize blood pressure (counterbalancing sodium intake and levels), preventing high blood pressure.

However, in this case too, it is important to emphasize that this protective effect only becomes relevant within the context of a healthy lifestyle, with regular physical exercise, good quality sleep, a balanced diet, and the absence of smoking and alcohol consumption, among other factors that are important for preventing cardiovascular diseases.

Care to take when consuming and choosing strawberries

Like other berries, strawberries spoil quickly, so they should be consumed as soon as possible after purchase.

When choosing, opt for ripe fruit with a vibrant color and no signs of spoilage. Keep these fruits refrigerated until ready to eat to extend their shelf life.

When consuming, it must be cleaned beforehand using water with drops of lemon or vinegar.

It is also recommended that they be consumed within their seasonal season, in order to maintain all the nutritional benefits mentioned above.

Strawberry allergy

Although they are safe and generally well-tolerated foods, strawberry allergy is a relatively common condition, particularly in children.

In severe cases, it can cause respiratory problems and severe skin reactions, so you should be aware of this situation the first few times this fruit is eaten by young children.

Nutritional Declaration

Conditions of Conservation and/or Use

Store in a cool, dry place

Origin

Portugal – West Zone

VidaAtiva Credits.

Horta da Maria's mission is to help Portuguese families improve the quality of the food they consume, always supported by the philosophy of bringing consumers the best national products, sourced directly from the producers.

The best strawberries in Brazil are at Horta da Maria! The ideal place to buy fruits, vegetables, groceries, and baskets delivered to your door.