Eat Seasonably – STRAWBERRIES
There is nothing like fresh fruits and vegetables during peak season. Check out our “Eat Seasonably” feature where we will share health tips, preparation tricks, and new recipes featuring the best of the season’s produce.
At just 50 calories per cup, sweet and fresh strawberries are the perfect addition to your daily summer diet. Just one serving of berries per day (approximately 8 berries, or 1 cup), may improve heart health and improve digestion. Read on to learn why these berries should be a staple on your summer grocery list!
Health Benefits
They reduce inflammation: Strawberries contain a unique combination of antioxidant and anti-inflammatory nutrients.
They improve digestion and regulation of blood sugar: These berries contain 2 grams of fiber per serving.
They fight disease: Research suggests that increased fruit and vegetable intake has been correlated in a decrease in cardiovascular disease as well as the prevention of certain cancer types including breast, cervical, colon, and esophageal cancer. Strawberries’ heart healthy and anti-cancer fighting nutrients come from their high phytonutrient content.
Greatest source of Vitamin C of all fruits: One-cup of strawberries contains 160 percent of your daily recommended amount of vitamin C.
How to select and store: Strawberries are very perishable, and should only be purchased a few days prior to use, as nutrients are at their peak at this time. Look for firm, red berries, without mushy or dark spots.
Strawberries are a part of the “Dirty Dozen” list, so be sure to wash them right before eating. Avoid cooking these berries, as their vitamins, antioxidants, and enzymes cannot withstand high cooking temperatures.
Go to your nearest farmer’s market or U-Pick farm to choose your own sweet, healthy fruit to bring home! See a list of available U-Pick farms. NOTE: Be sure to call before traveling to U-Pick farms, unseasonably wet weather has affected many berry crops!
Recipe: Strawberry Poppy Seed Salad
Did we tempt your taste buds? Grab some strawberries, fresh or frozen, and try these recipes!
No-Sugar Added Breakfast Treat: Strawberry Banana Oatmeal Muffins
Say Good-bye to Plain Water: Strawberry Lime Cucumber Mint Water
Quick and Easy Kid-Approved Dinner: Strawberry Balsamic Chicken
Perk Up Your Playdate Snack: Strawberry Fruit Leather