Strawberries are a nutrient-rich superfood that has the potential to scale back inflammation and forestall stroke, cancer and hypertension. Scientists have now found that two servings of strawberries every day can improve heart and brain health and antioxidant capability in older healthy adults.
Previous studies have shown that strawberries could help improve total and LDL (low-density lipoprotein) levels of cholesterol and blood pressure – markers of cardiovascular health.
In the newest study, a team of researchers from San Diego State University evaluated 35 healthy men and girls between the ages of 66 and 78 for over eight weeks. The participants were either given 26 grams of freeze-dried strawberry powder (akin to two servings of fresh strawberries) or a control powder.
At the top of the trial, researchers noticed that strawberry consumption was linked to a rise in cognitive processing speed by 5.2%, a decrease in systolic blood pressure by 3.6% and a rise in total antioxidant capability by 10.2%. Nonetheless, the participants who took the control powder showed increased serum triglycerides.
“Previously published research has already shown among the acute and long-term cardiovascular health advantages of strawberries in numerous populations, so that is great to verify a few of those findings. This study demonstrates that consuming strawberries may promote cognitive function and improve cardiovascular risk aspects like hypertension. We’re encouraged that an easy dietary change, like adding strawberries to the every day eating regimen, may improve these outcomes in older adults,” said Shirin Hooshmand, principal investigator of the study.
The researchers say the antioxidant capacities of polyphenolic compounds in strawberries could also be providing cardiovascular and cognitive health advantages.
Along with the cardiovascular and brain health advantages, listed below are another advantages of strawberries:
1. Low in calories – Strawberry is a low-calorie fruit wealthy in fiber that may be a perfect alternative of food for weight reduction.
2. Strengthens the immune system – Strawberries are excellent sources of vitamin C and manganese chargeable for wound healing and treatment of respiratory and systemic infections.
3. Reduces inflammation – Anthocyanins that give red color to strawberries are also known for his or her anti-inflammatory properties. Reducing inflammation helps in cutting down the cell damage and occurrence of chronic conditions like heart problems, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, type 2 diabetes, Alzheimer’s disease and certain cancers.
4. Regulates blood sugar – Strawberry is a low-glycemic index fruit ideal for individuals with diabetes. Magnesium in strawberries helps to enhance insulin resistance and higher regulation of blood sugar levels.
Published by Medicaldaily.com