Strawberries are so fabulous there are festivals held in their honor.
Have you ever heard of a strawberry festival? It is a grand outdoor festival full of fun and you guessed it, strawberries!
There are exhibits, free music, amusement rides, animals, parades, the crowning of the strawberry queen and contests! The baby contests focus on diaper decorating and the fast-paced diaper derby.
The ultimate contest celebrating strawberries is the strawberry shortcake eating contest. Participants have 10 minutes to eat four pounds of strawberry shortcake, including the whipped cream.
There are utensils involved but they make it no less messy!
Is the strawberry worthy of all this attention?
With approximately 70 varieties grown in all 50 states it would seem so. The berry’s nutritional profile and health benefits warrant attention.
Strawberries contain 46 calories per cup and contain more vitamin C than any other berry (86 mg.), providing over 100% of your daily needs.
A serving also supplies 12% of the daily values for dietary fiber.
Health Benefits
One serving a day has been shown to
- decrease blood pressure
- decrease risk of cancer
- improve memory
- offer some relief from rheumatoid arthritis
Good Source of Minerals
- Potassium
- Manganese
- Fluoride
- Copper
- Folate
Strawberries are also a good sources of Vitamin A, vitamin E and B-complex vitamins.
The phytochemical ellagic acid, present in strawberries has anti-cancer properties which are responsible for causing the death of cancer cells. Strawberries also contain anthocyanins, antioxidant flavonoids responsible for the berries’ bright red colors.
Early research shows this antioxidant may inhibit the growth of some tumor cells.
Anthocyanins
- protect against damage of connective tissue
- may protect against neurological disease
- fight atherosclerosis
- stabilize capillary walls
- improve diabetic retinopathy
- increase normal capillary function in diabetics
Strawberries are quick to perish and must be taken care of quickly. It is a good idea to store them in a shallow container in the refrigerator using paper towels to absorb any extra moisture.
They can be frozen successfully for later use.
Protein Strawberry Shake
Ingredients:
- 1 cup strawberries (fresh or frozen)
- 1/4 cup soft tofu
- 1 cup soy milk
- 1 serving plant-based protein powder
Blend and enjoy.
On the Go Strawberry Shake
Ingredients:
- 1 cup fresh or frozen strawberries
- 2 cups soy milk
Preparation:
- Blend and enjoy.
- Add ice cubes if desired.
Strawberries can be really fun too.
There are many alcoholic beverages made with strawberries: wine, daiquiris, margaritas and martinis. Drink in moderation!