Why strawberries are useful and features of its use
The usefulness of strawberries is determined by its rich composition. This berry has spread in Europe since the 18th century. Over time, breeders managed to breed many varieties of strawberries – varieties of strawberries.
What’s in
The composition of strawberries contains vitamins and minerals, the calorie content is low – only 30 kcal per 100 g. More than ¾ the mass of the product is water. The rest of the volume is nutrients useful for the body: vitamins, organic acids, trace elements.
Vitamin C
200 g of vitamin C contains 120 mg.
This vitamin has a multifaceted effect on the body:
- strengthens the immune system;
- gives an anti-inflammatory effect;
- helps to normalize the work of blood vessels and heart muscle.
Vitamin E
200 g of vitamin E berries contain 1.6 mg.
It endows strawberries with the following beneficial properties:
- improving muscle condition;
- acceleration of regeneration processes;
- anti-aging effect;
- improving heart function.
B vitamins
Vitamins, which belong to group B, improve mood. They also have a beneficial effect on the female genital organs and hormonal levels..
Trace elements
Phosphorus in strawberries participates in intercellular metabolism and strengthens bones. Magnesium, sodium and potassium improve the functioning of the heart, have a positive effect on the nervous system and muscles. Working together, they are involved in maintaining the body’s water-salt balance..
What is the use of iron in strawberries? This trace element increases the level of hemoglobin, stimulates the hematopoietic system.
Calcium is a very important trace element, it participates in such important processes:
- improves the condition of bones and teeth;
- strengthens the nervous system;
- normalizes blood clotting;
- improves muscle condition.
The effectiveness of microelements increases due to the complex action together with vitamins. At the same time, the vitamins themselves are better absorbed..
Acids
Oxalic acid is a source of energy replenishment in the body, takes part in the normalization of the intestines.
Salicylic acid has the following effects:
- participates in blood thinning;
- relieves heat;
- stimulates the secretion of sweat.
Why strawberries are good for you
In folk medicine, the benefits of strawberries for the human body are not limited only to berries, the roots and leaves of the plant are also used.
Berries taken in moderation can improve appetite and well-being, help with such diseases:
- anemia;
- gout;
- atherosclerosis;
- gallstones;
- cold;
- stomatitis;
- tonsillitis;
- metabolic disease.
With a cold
For rinsing with tonsillitis, pharyngitis and other pathologies, water infusions from fresh berries can be used. Strawberries for colds are drunk ½ a glass of drink before meals.
To prepare a medicinal mixture, you must:
- Rinse and chop the berries.
- Measure out 2 tbsp. l.
- Boil 1 glass of water.
- Pour over the berries puree.
- Put the mixture in a thermos.
- Brew for half an hour.
The benefits of strawberries are higher when consumed with fresh berries. For therapeutic and prophylactic purposes, as part of a set of measures, juice from berries, infusions, compotes, jam can be used.
For immunity
Vitamin C, which is part of strawberries, protects the body from colds and flu. Natural acids effectively fight free radicals, slow down the development of cancer cells and prevent pathological processes.
For skin and teeth
What are the benefits of aromatic strawberries for the skin? In addition to being eaten, berries can be used externally. Freshly squeezed strawberry juice has anti-inflammatory and wound healing properties, and also whitens teeth.
When used externally, the berries can be part of the masks. To do this, berry puree can be combined with raw egg white.
Benefits for women
The beneficial properties of strawberries for women are associated with the presence of folic acid, B vitamins and other beneficial substances in berries. Their use when planning pregnancy and in the early stages is the prevention of fetal pathologies.
Strawberries, rich in fiber, have a beneficial effect on the functioning of a woman’s intestines, which is especially important during pregnancy. A mild diuretic effect is also beneficial. This relieves the burden on the kidneys, which is especially important in the last trimester of pregnancy..
Fisetin from strawberries is a good antioxidant that inhibits breast cancer cells and enhances the effectiveness of anti-cancer drugs.
For the urinary system and digestion
Strawberries have a mild diuretic effect. This property of berries allows you to remove excess fluid from the body and contributes to good kidney function..
Berries, due to their composition, can be included in the diets of those who are struggling with extra pounds. In addition to improving the digestion process, strawberries help burn excess fat..
For vision and nervous system
Antioxidants and vitamins in berries strengthen eyesight and reduce the risk of abnormalities. And normalize intraocular pressure.
Antioxidants in the composition prevent stroke, stimulate the brain. To do this, it is enough to eat berries in small portions, especially in season..
For blood vessels, heart and endocrine system
Trace elements (magnesium and potassium) strengthen the heart muscle and control cholesterol levels. Strawberries not only have a beneficial effect on blood vessels and the heart, but also prevent diabetes..
Musculoskeletal system
Substances such as quercetin and curcumin have a preventive effect on the musculoskeletal system. Acting in combination, they remove toxins from the human body, prevent the development of arthritis.
Potential harm from berries
The benefits and harms of strawberries are determined by its composition. Despite all the usefulness, in some cases, the berries require careful intake. Bright juicy strawberries are a food that can cause allergies. In addition, the porous structure itself can accumulate pollen from neighboring plants..
The danger from berries can be associated with fertilizing the soil. Strawberries fed with nitrates can be dangerous for the body, especially for children. Berries should be used with caution for those who have diseases of the gastrointestinal tract. This is due to the mechanical irritating effect of small seeds of berries on the digestive organs..
Severe contraindications for taking strawberries are:
- individual intolerance;
- allergy;
- exacerbation of chronic diseases of the gastrointestinal tract or urinary tract;
- acute form of gastritis, cystitis.
Consuming large quantities of strawberries is contraindicated for those suffering from joint and bone pathologies, including after fractures and other injuries of the musculoskeletal system.
Not everyone is good at strawberries in combination with other products. For example, the benefits and harms of strawberries with milk depend on several factors. For people trying to lose weight, it is necessary to take skim milk when preparing a berry cocktail and not put too much sugar. Better yet, replace it with honey. Otherwise, the dish can no longer be considered dietary..
Strawberries are a tasty and healthy berry that must be in the diet if there are no contraindications to its use. Only washed, undamaged berries should be used for food. The best time for treats is between meals..
