Strawberries

Summer has finally arrived and the Wimbledon Championships are about to start which can mean only one thing…. it’s strawberry season in the UK!

The beautiful red colour of strawberries can partially be attributed to their high content of the phytochemical anthocyanin which belongs to an important class of compounds called flavonoids. Studies have shown that foods rich in flavonoids have a beneficial effect on blood pressure by helping to dilate arteries and prevent plaque build-up, helping to lower risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD) [1]. One study showed that women aged 25-42 years who consumed at least three servings of strawberries and blueberries per week had fewer heart attacks [2], this was also reflected in a study involving post-menopausal women who are at high risk of CVD [3].   

Strawberries are also a great source of fibre and contain high levels of vitamin C and manganese both powerful antioxidants, they also help regulate blood sugar and support bone health, particularly beneficial for menopausal women [4].

Although strawberries have a delicious, sweet taste overall they have a lower sugar content compared to other red fruit, so go ahead and enjoy.

Serving ideas:

• Classic cream or ice cream
• Greek/plain yoghurt sprinkled with chia seeds
• Drizzled with pomegranate molasses
• Eton Mess – whipped cream and meringue
• Breakfast cereal topping
• Dipped in melted chocolate (dark preferably!)
• An accompaniment to cheese e.g. mozzarella – surprisingly delicious!
• Skewed onto cocktail sticks alongside other fruit e.g. grapes, melon
• Cake topping

References

1.           Hooper, L., et al., Flavonoids, flavonoid-rich foods, and cardiovascular risk: a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. Am J Clin Nutr, 2008. 88(1): p. 38-50.

2.           Cassidy, A., et al., High anthocyanin intake is associated with a reduced risk of myocardial infarction in young and middle-aged women. Circulation, 2013. 127(2): p. 188-96.

3.           Mink, P.J., et al., Flavonoid intake and cardiovascular disease mortality: a prospective study in postmenopausal women. Am J Clin Nutr, 2007. 85(3): p. 895-909.

4.           Pisani, P., et al., Major osteoporotic fragility fractures: Risk factor updates and societal impact. World J Orthop, 2016. 7(3): p. 171-81.