Compiled & reviewed  by Dr.Sanjana.VB.BHMS.DBRM.

 How do strawberries help to prevent infections?

   The strawberries (Fragaria ananassa) originated in Europe in the 18th century and belongs to the family Rosaceae. Strawberries are native to the temperate regions of the Northern Hemisphere, and cultivated varieties are widely grown worldwide. Strawberries are good source of vitamin C and they are commonly consumed as a dessert fruit.

   Strawberries are produced commercially both for immediate consumption and for processing as frozen, canned, or preserved berries or as juice. The major commercial variety is Fragaria ananassa.

Fresh strawberries are rich in nutrients and more beneficial compared to the frozen varieties.

They’re an excellent source of vitamin C, folate (vitamin B9) ,manganese and potassium.

Strawberries are very rich in antioxidants and phyto-chemicals which can protect your heart health.

Vitamin C in strawberries  plays a pivotal role in our immunity & healing of wounds. It  also helps in controlling infections .Your vitamin C level determines the severity of infections and speed of recovery from them.

  It is a powerful antioxidant that can neutralize the effects of free radical attack on your body. Vitamin C helps the body to repair the damage caused by oxidative stress from reactive oxygen species free radicals.

The free radical mediated injury or damage is the ground for many chronic diseases of our organ systems. Vitamin C protects our body not only from acute infections by boosting immunity, but also from chronic diseases, fighting against free radicals.

 Vitamin C is a very important for your skin and hair. 

Strawberries are packed with antioxidants and beneficial plant compounds, such as:

Pelargonidin

This is the main anthocyanin in strawberries and  this compound gives strawberries the fascinating bright red color .

Ellagic acid  

 It is found in high amounts in strawberries, ellagic acid is a polyphenol antioxidant that may have many health benefits. Studies show that ellagic acid may decrease cancer cell growth, alleviate inflammation, and protect brain function.

Ellagitannins.

 Ellagitannins are converted to ellagic acid in your gut . These are very beneficial to your health. Ellagitannins and ellagic acid comprise a large part of these antioxidants in strawberries. Procyanidins are antioxidants chiefly found in strawberry flesh and seeds.

  Strawberries help weight loss also. They are used as a breakfast snacking or dessert item for all who want to lose weight as the fruit contains great amount of water [about 91% water by weight],fibers contributing to their low calorie content 

How to make healthy strawberry smoothie? 

Ingredients:

1 cup chopped strawberries

½ cup Greek yoghurt

 5-6 Ice cubes

Water [optional]

Honey [optional]

Preparation :

Grind all the three ingredients [ strawberries, Greek yoghurt ,ice cubes] in a smoothie maker or mixer. Add water if the mixture is too thick.

Add honey if you prefer to add it. Smoothie is ready. You can drink it fresh or refrigerate for 2 hours and then consume it.

It is a very healthy smoothie with no added sugars and help very much in maintaining your weight. As the strawberries are excellent source of vitamin C, anti-oxidants, minerals and fibers, this smoothie helps to protect you from infections; protects your heart; it enhances your skin glow; and improves your digestive or gut health.

References

  1.    https://www.britannica.com/plant/strawberry