Spectacular Strawberries (4 Reasons to Eat Them, Plus Delicious Recipes!)

Did you know that strawberries are the first fruit to ripen in the Spring? Depending on the climate, strawberries can be harvested from late April to June! That is why May is the perfect time to celebrate this juicy fruit for National Strawberry Month.

When it comes to fruit, strawberries are a wonderful addition to add to your diet due to their nutrition profile. They are full of micro and macronutrients that your body utilizes to provide you with energy. They also contain numerous compounds that are associated with better health overall.

Strawberries, when they are ripe, are juicy and bursting with flavor. Given their sweet flavoring, they are typically used in desserts however you can eat them with any meal. There are hundreds of recipes out there with tips on how to eat this yummy fruit!

Nutrient Profile

If you are looking to satisfy your sweet tooth without turning to foods without added sugar, then strawberries are for you. They are sweet due to their natural simple sugar makeup; however, they won’t raise blood sugars too much due to their lower glycemic index. There are so many reasons to eat more strawberries, here are 4:

1. Fiber: They are full of fiber, both soluble and insoluble. Your body uses both forms of fiber to help keep your gastrointestinal tract healthy by keeping you regular and feeding the good bacteria in your gut. Additionally, fiber can help prevent spikes in blood sugar levels by slowing down digestion.

2. Vitamin C: You may think of oranges when it comes to this micronutrient, however strawberries are an excellent source of Vitamin C. Your body uses Vitamin C as an antioxidant which can help protect your immune system.

3. Folate: Many grain foods in America are fortified with folic acid because it is so essential to the body. If you are looking for a natural source, try strawberries. Folate is used by the body for tissue growth and is especially important in pregnancy.

4. Plant Compounds: There are various plant compounds found in strawberries such as ellagic acid and procyanidins. Each compound has a different function which can have beneficial health effects.

Scrumptious Ways to Enjoy Strawberries

Satisfy your sweet tooth with a handful of strawberries. While one of the most popular ways to eat strawberries is raw, you can try them out in a recipe. Here are a few of my favorites:

• Strawberry Shortcake: If you are looking for something not too heavy and refreshing after dinner, this is the dessert for you!

• Strawberry Oatmeal Bars: Start your morning off right with a bar of delicious oats with a topping of cream and strawberry puree.

• Strawberry Trifle: For a more serious dessert, try a trifle that is delicious and filling.

• Strawberry Cheesecake: You can have the best of both worlds with a cheesecake layered with strawberries or a strawberry swirl mixed in.

• Strawberry Smoothie: If you’re someone who is always on the go, why not try a smoothie with bananas and strawberries?!

There are hundreds of more recipes you can try, just don’t forget to celebrate this dynamic fruit for National Strawberry Month.

Your Turn to Action: What is your favorite recipe with strawberries? Let me know in the comments below.

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