Strawberries are widely appreciated for the characteristic aroma, bright red color, juicy texture, and a sweet yet mildly sour taste. The Panchgani-Mahabaleshwar belt contributes around 85% of the total production of strawberries in India. The rest comes from Himachal Pradesh and Jammu and Kash‐ mir. Despite the name, strawberries are not actually ‘berries’. Technically, they are an aggregate accessory fruit, meaning that the fleshy part is derived not from the plant’s ovaries but from the receptacle (the thickened part of a stem) that holds the ovaries. Also, strawberries are a member of rose family and the only fruit to have seeds on the outside. The ‘seeds’ on the outside of a strawberry are actually the plant’s ovaries and are called ‘achenes’. Each ‘seed’ is technically a separate fruit that has a seed inside of it. Usually consumed raw and fresh, these can also be used in a variety of jams, jellies, and desserts.
Health Benefits:
- Strawberries aid in improving cognitive processes:
Loss of memory and control of muscle activity, which are due to natural aging, are commonly anticipated in senior citizens. However, free radicals can cause premature aging of the brain and nervous system in younger adults. Free radicals, a harmful byproduct of cell metabolism,generate a phenomenon called oxidative stress that deteriorates nerves. Fortunately, strawberries are rich in vitamin C and phytochemicals that help reinvigorate the nervous system. Strawberries are also an excellent source of iodine that is beneficial for the proper functioning of the brain and nervous system. Likewise, potassium, which is also found in modest quantities in strawberries, has been linked to improved cognitive function by encouraging blood flow to the brain.
- Strawberries Benefit Diabetics :
Strawberry may be sweet, but this fruit is actually a beneficial treat to diabetic patients. The Strawberry has a low glycemic index and high fiber, which makes it a smart fruit choice.
- Strawberries Protect the Heart :
Significant amounts of polyphenols found in strawberries also reduces the risk of cardiovascular disease by inhibiting platelet formation and reduce blood pressure by means of its anti-inflammatory mechanisms. This makes strawberries a very important fruit for promoting heart health.
- Strawberry Improve Eyesight :
A majority of eye-related problems are brought on by the generation of free radicals. Old age and a deficit of protective nutrients enable free radicals to cause serious damages to the eyes such as degeneration of the optic nerve, increased vulner‐ ability to eye infections, and macular degeneration among others. Strawberries are abundant in Ellagic acid, flavonoids, and phenolic phytochemicals that help prevent such problems to a large degree.
- Strawberries Help Prevent Birth Defects:
Adequate folic acid intake is crucial during pregnancy. Strawberries are an excellent source of natural folate, which helps prevent neural tube defects in infants. Likewise, folate also prevents postpartum depression in new mothers. Postpartum depression, also known as postnatal depression, is a type of mood disorder that occurs after childbirth. Folate prevents the formation of excess homocysteine in the body, which is known to disrupt the production of the happy hormones serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine.
- Strawberry Strengthens The Immune System :
Your immune system is your first line of defense against pathogenic assault and other potentially harmful conditions. Strawberries are an excellent source of vitamin C, a potent antioxidant that neutralizes free radicals and strengthens your immune system’s response against infections such as the common cold.
- Strawberries help improve skin quality :
Vitamin C, which is abundant in strawberries, inhibits free radical activity that may lead to premature skin aging such as fine lines, dullness, and sagging skin. Strawberries contain Ellagic acid, an antioxidant that promotes collagen production and provides UV protection; hence, keeping skin smooth and supple.
