Healthy Eating - Berry Power - Strawberries

Strawberries are amongst the most popular fruits inStrawberries, through their high ORAC levels can
the world. They have been eaten for centuries andassist Brain function and may help reduce memory
have been known for their health benefits.loss as we age through prevention in earlier life.
Strawberries are very nutritious containing manyStrawberries may assist with vision by providing
valuable nutrients. They are a rich source of Vitaminnutrients the eyes need to function normally as well
A and Vitamin C. Strawberries are high inas preventing a build up of free radicals causing
carbohydrates and dietary fibre. They also containdamaging effects to the eyes and vision.
protein. Strawberries are a viable source of Calcium,Arthritis sufferers may find relief by including
Iron, Magnesium, Phosphorus, Potassium, Selenium,Strawberries along with other ORAC fruits in the diet
iodine and Folate.or by including an ORAC high supplement in a regular
The Strawberry is from the rose family, Rosaceae.diet.
Its Botanical name is Fragaria ananassa. Various crossAntioxidants can assist in the prevention of cancers.
breeding between strawberry species has developedStrawberries and other Fruits high in Antioxidants can
the strawberry commonly known today.have a preventative effect on the development of
The strawberry is unique in that the seeds are borncancers.
on the outside of the fruit rather than on the insideThe Potassium and Magnesium content in
of the fleshy pulp such as with raspberries.Strawberries makes them an ideal assistant in
Strawberries are known for their high level of ORAClowering high blood pressure which can be caused by
units. ORAC is short for Oxygen Radical Absorbencyhigh sodium foods in the diet.
Capacity. An ORAC measurement is a rating of theStrawberries with their high Folate levels are an
Antioxidant power of a substance. Antioxidants canexcellent food for women to eat when planning for
neutralise oxygen free radicals. If a substance canpregnancy and during the first few months of
absorb more free radicals it gets a higher ORACpregnancy.
rating.Commercial strawberry growers tend to use a lot of
Many nutritional experts recommend we consume atchemicals in the growing process. If you can find a
least 5000 ORAC units per day to reduce free radicallocal organic grower or better still grow your own.
damage.Precautions
1 cup of fresh fruit or vegetables contains aroundAny health related topics have been included based
20% of the recommended 5000 ORAC units weon a long-term research into this area. None of the
need per day. Very few people would consume 5medical information listed should be considered a cure
cups of fruit or vegetables per day. This is whyfor any illness. Nothing listed here should take the
supplementation is often required to deliver a higherplace of advice given to you by your family Doctor.
intake of Antioxidants.