What’s so great about these “berries”? Well, strawberries can be both good and bad depending on how it affects each individual. It can be a boon to some by providing extra nutritional value due to its abundance in antioxidants like anthocyanins on the one hand or be a curse to those who are allergic to strawberries. In history, some cultures believed that strawberries could prolong life and has also been used as symbols of purity, perfection and love.
 
Health Benefits of Strawberries:
 
There is ample evidence of the health benefits of strawberries. The benefits include, eye care, whitening teeth, relief from high blood pressure, arthritis and gout, heart diseases, skin care and beauty treatment and even in proper brain function.
 
·      The antioxidants such as phenolic phytochemicals, vitamin-C, flavonoids and ellagic acid, present in strawberries prevent the harmful oxidants or free radicals
from causing damage to the eyes. It also helps to maintain the right ocular pressure due to the presence of potassium.
 
.      The acids that are present in strawberries helps to remove stains from teeth, thereby making them appear whiter. Cut a strawberry in half and rub it on the teeth and gums to remove the tartar, which will strengthen and heal the gums. You should let the juice remain on the teeth for a while longer before gargling with warm water.
 
·      The antioxidants and detoxifiers in strawberries will prevent the degenerative effects of the free radicals on muscles and joints in the body that causes arthritis and gout.
 
·       Vitamin-C, folate and anthocyanin, quercetin and kaempferol are some of the flavonoids that are present in strawberries that possess excellent anti oxidant and anti carcinogenic properties, which helps to fight cancer and tumor. Therefore, a daily intake of strawberries can bring down the cancerous growth of cells, drastically.
 
·      Strawberries are rich in iodine content and therefore are very helpful in the proper functioning of the brain and nervous system.
 
·      Strawberries are very effective in lowering the high blood pressure caused due to sodium, as it is rich in potassium and magnesium content, which helps to maintain the electrolyte balance.
 
·      Strawberries can also help to reduce the cholesterol levels by virtue of its high fiber, folate, no fats and high anti oxidants properties, thereby reducing heart diseases. Strawberries also help to strengthen the cardiac muscles due to the presence of vitamin B, which helps the heart to function properly.
 
·      Strawberries are also very good for the skin and can be used for beauty treatments as it helps in softening the skin and clearing away dead skin cells. It then hydrates the skin by allowing moisture to enter the skin's surface. The antioxidants, phyto-nutrients and vitamin C provide the skin a healthy nourishing nutritional mixture.
 
·      Strawberries are very good for the immune system due to all of the above-mentioned properties, and can help to prevent mild infections like the cold, flu and fever. Apart from this, it also has a very good anti-inflammatory property.
 
Some Interesting Facts About Strawberries
 
It may come as a surprise to you to know that strawberries belong to the family of the rose flower (Rosaceae) and the fact that they are really not considered a fruit at all. The strawberries that we find commonly in the market these days are a hybrid of different species, specifically selected by breeders to yield more crop that have a better taste and a more nutritious profile.
 
Strawberries are used extensively in foodstuffs like ice creams, jams, jellies, squashes, syrups, confectionaries, bakeries
, chocolates and even medicines for their extraordinarily rich flavor, taste and color. Of course, one can also eat them fresh. There are many delicious recipes that can be made using strawberries. Visit this website for some easy strawberry recipes that you can make at home. http://www.easy-strawberry-recipes.com

People still are trying to eat healthier, more balanced meals.

I see bacon, bacon, bacon listed in trendy foods this year. Huh? What did I just say about eating healthier?

We’re cooking more because of the economy and the Food Network.

We’re eating at home more often but picking up more ready to heat and eat from the supermarkets. Is heating up cooking?

Smaller portions when eating out. (Lower prices, too?)

More fiber, of course.

Growth in private label products at supermarkets because of the economy and quality.

More products are going to appear that are gluten free, which is good news for many of you.

More portion control.

Goji berries, which have too many nutrients to mention.

Mangosteen fruit from Thailand are considered to pack a nutrition punch.

Acai berries from Brazil’s rainforest are in juice, supplements, preserves, frozen and other forms. It is said that these berries tastes like chocolate and cherries and are a complete protein. Really?

Pomegranates, cranberries, blueberries, strawberries, blackberries and raspberries also are on the recommended list.

Sardines and mackerel, good sources of Omega 3, are taking over from tuna. (Not in my house.)

Eating more fruits and vegetables, all colors.

Good quality dark chocolate.

Extra lean cuts of meats, more salmon or other fish and poultry.

Tomato paste or sauce.

Nonfat yogurt, Greek yogurt and nonfat dairy products.

Oranges and other citrus.

Old fashioned oatmeal.

Tea.

Chiles of all kinds from very hot to mild.

Beans and lentils, which are fiber and nutrition packed.

Eggs. Yes, they are back in good standing.

Apples are back in a big way because of fiber and nutrients thought to reduce the risk of heart disease, fighting weight gain and abdominal fat and more.

Fresh ginger, fresh herbs, spices, Kosher salt, sea salt and balsamic vinegar.

Quinoa grain, which is a complete protein.

Good for you walnuts, almonds and pistachios. Watch the amounts, though, as these nuts are high in calories and fat.

Sweet potatoes (yams).

Grilled and roasted vegetables.