Incorporating one to four cups of strawberries daily demonstrates a positive influence on lipid metabolism and inflammatory markers for individuals identified with elevated cardiovascular susceptibility, as indicated by a recently published review article in the esteemed journal Critical Reviews in Food Science and Nutrition.
Strawberries represent a natural and palatable method for bolstering cardiovascular well-being and managing lipid profiles. Image attribution: D. Сroisy.
“The primary objective of our synthesis of existing research is to furnish an exhaustive overview of recent human investigations concerning the impact of strawberry consumption and the ingestion of strawberry-derived phytonutrients on human health.”
For the purposes of this review, the researchers undertook an extensive search of scientific literature across the PubMed and Cochrane databases.
They meticulously aggregated the findings derived from 60 distinct publications, comprising 47 clinical trials and 13 observational studies, with a publication window spanning from 2000 to 2023.
Their analysis revealed that strawberries are exceptionally rich in beneficial plant compounds, such as polyphenols and dietary fiber, which are instrumental in reducing low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol and triglyceride levels, concurrently mitigating inflammatory responses.
The cumulative effect of these beneficial actions is an enhancement of overall cardiac function and a more effective management of risk factors associated with cardiovascular disease.
Regardless of whether consumed fresh, frozen, or in a freeze-dried state, a consistent daily intake of strawberries can exert a significant positive influence on cardiometabolic health, particularly for individuals predisposed to a higher risk of cardiac ailments.
Through the augmentation of lipid metabolism and the suppression of systemic inflammation, strawberries contribute to a diminished likelihood of developing serious cardiovascular pathologies.
“Our comprehensive review brought to light that consistent consumption of strawberries not only leads to a reduction in cholesterol levels but also plays a crucial role in curtailing inflammation, a principal instigator of heart disease,” stated Dr. Holt.
“This underscores the substantial benefit of simply integrating a single cup of strawberries into one’s daily dietary habits as a means to significantly decrease the probability of experiencing cardiovascular events.”
Beyond their established cardiovascular advantages, the research team’s review uncovered compelling benefits pertaining to neurological health.
The findings suggest that strawberries may contribute to the deceleration of cognitive decline and offer protection against dementia, largely attributed to their abundant flavonoid content.
“Strawberries possess the potential to support cognitive faculties and counteract oxidative stress, both pivotal elements in maintaining sharp cognitive function throughout the aging process,” the research team concluded.
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Prae Charoenwoodhipong et al. Strawberry (Fragaria x ananassa) intake on human health and disease outcomes: a comprehensive literature review. Critical Reviews in Food Science and Nutrition, published online September 11, 2024; doi: 10.1080/10408398.2024.2398634
