Strawberries are a delicious and low-calorie fruit, with 2/3 cup (140 g) of sliced strawberries containing only 50 calories. But their benefits go beyond just being a tasty treat. Strawberries are a nutrient-dense fruit that can help support a healthy body.
These berries are packed with vitamin C, providing over 100% of the daily recommended value in a single serving. They are also a great source of fiber, with one 2/3 cup (140 g) serving containing 3 grams of fiber. And with their sweet and juicy flavor, sliced strawberries are a versatile ingredient for many recipes.
In this article, we'll explore the many health benefits of sliced strawberries and how they can support your body's overall wellness.
Low Calorie Fruit
As mentioned earlier, sliced strawberries are a low-calorie fruit, making them a perfect snack for anyone watching their weight. With only 50 calories in a serving, they can be enjoyed guilt-free as a sweet treat or added to meals as a flavorful ingredient. Compared to other fruits, strawberries are lower in calories and sugar, while still packing a nutritional punch. This makes them a great choice for anyone looking to reduce their calorie intake and maintain a healthy weight.
Packed with Vitamin C
Sliced strawberries are an excellent source of vitamin C, which is essential for the overall health and functioning of the body. Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that helps protect cells from damage caused by harmful free radicals. Additionally, vitamin C plays a role in collagen synthesis, which is important for maintaining healthy skin, bones, and cartilage. And with over 100% of the daily recommended value of vitamin C in just one serving of sliced strawberries, they are a potent source of this important nutrient.
Great Source of Fiber
Fiber is an important nutrient that supports digestion and helps regulate blood sugar levels. And with 3 grams of fiber per 2/3 cup serving, sliced strawberries are a great source of this vital nutrient. Fiber can also help you feel fuller for longer, which can aid in weight loss and management. And with their natural sweetness, sliced strawberries can add a tasty and healthy boost of fiber to any meal or snack.
Versatile Ingredient for Recipes
Sliced strawberries are a versatile ingredient that can be used in a wide range of recipes, from breakfast to dessert. Add them to your morning oatmeal or yogurt for a healthy and flavorful boost, or use them in salads for a sweet and tangy twist. They also pair well with savory dishes, such as grilled chicken or fish, adding a pop of color and flavor to the plate. And of course, no dessert is complete without sliced strawberries, which are a classic topping for cakes, pies, and shortcakes.
Boosts Immune System
As a rich source of vitamin C, sliced strawberries can help boost the immune system, improving the body's ability to fight off infections and illnesses. Vitamin C is essential for the production of white blood cells, which are responsible for identifying and attacking foreign invaders in the body. And with their delicious taste, sliced strawberries are an easy and delicious way to support a healthier immune system.
May Help Regulate Blood Sugar
Blood sugar regulation is a crucial factor in overall health, and sliced strawberries may provide some support in this area. With their low glycemic index and high fiber content, sliced strawberries can help slow the absorption of sugar into the bloodstream, preventing spikes in blood sugar levels. And with their natural sweetness, they can provide a satisfying alternative to processed sugary snacks.
Improves Heart Health
Strawberries are a heart-healthy fruit, thanks to their high levels of antioxidants and polyphenols. These compounds help protect against oxidative stress, inflammation, and the buildup of plaque in the arteries, all of which can contribute to heart disease. With their potent heart-protective effects, sliced strawberries can be a valuable addition to any heart-healthy diet.
Contains Antioxidants
Antioxidants are compounds that protect against cellular damage and oxidative stress, which can contribute to chronic diseases like cancer, diabetes, and Alzheimer's disease. And sliced strawberries are a rich source of antioxidants like vitamin C, anthocyanins, and ellagic acid. These compounds help protect against cellular damage and inflammation, making sliced strawberries a potent source of disease-fighting compounds.
May Reduce Inflammation
Inflammation is a natural response of the immune system to injury or infection, but chronic inflammation is a contributing factor to many diseases. Fortunately, the anti-inflammatory properties of sliced strawberries can help reduce inflammation throughout the body. And with their sweet and juicy flavor, they're a tasty way to combat inflammation naturally.
Adds Sweetness without Added Sugar
Many of us struggle with reducing our sugar intake, which can contribute to weight gain and other health issues. But sliced strawberries provide a natural sweetness that can be used to add flavor to meals and snacks without the need for added sugar. Incorporating sliced strawberries into your diet is an easy and delicious way to reduce your sugar intake and support a healthier lifestyle.
"Strawberries are the angels of the earth, innocent and sweet with green leafy wings reaching heavenward." - Jasmine Heiler
Frequently Asked Questions about 2/3 cup Sliced Strawberries (50 calories)
1. How many strawberries are in 2/3 cup?
It really depends on the size of the strawberries, but on average, 2/3 cup of sliced strawberries contains about 6-8 berries.
2. Are strawberries a good source of vitamins and minerals?
Yes, strawberries are packed with vitamins and minerals. They are a good source of vitamin C, folate, potassium, and fiber.
3. How many calories are in a serving of strawberries?
2/3 cup of sliced strawberries contains approximately 50 calories.
4. Can strawberries help with weight loss?
Yes, strawberries are low in calories and high in fiber, which can help with weight loss and maintaining a healthy weight when consumed as part of a balanced diet.
5. Are strawberries safe for people with allergies?
Strawberries can cause allergic reactions in some people. If you have a known strawberry allergy, you should avoid consuming them. If you are unsure if you are allergic to strawberries, speak with your doctor or allergist before consuming them.