A recent study showed that eating a certain amount of strawberries every day strengthens heart health and reduces cholesterol
A study presented at the 9th Biennial Strawberry Health Benefits Symposium (BHBS) showed that eating about eight strawberries a day contributes to heart health. Furthermore, the fruit provides cardiometabolic benefits to humans.
“The ‘Global Burden of Disease’ study showed that a low-fruit diet is among the top three risk factors for cardiovascular disease and diabetes. To address the ‘fruit gap,’ we must also increase the total amount of fruit consumed as the diversity of fruits in the diet. Growing evidence on cardiometabolic health suggests that just one cup of strawberries a day may show beneficial effects,” says Britt Burton-Freeman in a statement. Britt is a professor at the Illinois Institute of Technology, in a statement.
Benefits of strawberries proven by science
Previous studies had already highlighted the cardiometabolic benefits of strawberries. In fact, the gains that stand out the most are:
- Decrease in total and “bad” cholesterol (low-density lipoproteins);
- Increased relaxation and vascular elasticity;
- Decreased inflammation, oxidative stress and insulin resistance;
- Reduction in blood sugar.
Research conducted at the Illinois Institute of Technology, in the United States, analyzed 34 men and women with moderate hypercholesterolemia. In this case, scientists also concluded that vascular function improves rapidly after eating strawberries, in about an hour.
To complement these findings, scientists performed a randomized, controlled study with 33 obese adults. During the project they consumed two and a half cups of strawberries a day. This initiative significantly reduced the volunteers’ insulin resistance and, in addition, increased the size of the particles of “good cholesterol” (high-density lipoproteins), compared to the group that did not eat the fruit.
“Our study supports the hypothesis that strawberry consumption may reduce cardiometabolic risks,” said lead researcher Arpita Basu. “Furthermore, we believe this evidence supports the role of strawberries in a ‘food as medicine’ approach for the prevention of type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease in adults,” the researcher added.
Finally, the researchers point out that eight strawberries meet the recommended daily value of vitamin C and, in addition, provide numerous other nutrients and bioactive compounds beneficial to health. It is worth remembering that this is a versatile and very tasty fruit.
Source: Terra
Ben Stock is a lifestyle journalist and author at Gossipify. He writes about topics such as health, wellness, travel, food and home decor. He provides practical advice and inspiration to improve well-being, keeps readers up to date with latest lifestyle news and trends, known for his engaging writing style, in-depth analysis and unique perspectives.
