There is strong evidence that strawberries are a heart-protective fruit, an anti-cancer fruit, and an anti-inflammatory fruit all rolled into one.
Cancer Prevention
There have been many published reports on the anticancer effects of strawberries. Strawberries are one of the few sources, along with raspberries and grapes, of ellagic acid, a compound which has been shown to prevent carcinogens from turning healthy cells into cancerous ones. Strawberries also contain a multitude of cancer-fighting compounds, including vitamin C, folate, anthocyanins, quercetin and kaempferol.
Cardiovascular Disease Protection
New research has found that strawberries may offer cardiovascular disease protection. The study found that those who reported eating the most strawberries experienced lower blood levels of C-reactive protein, a blood biomarker that signals the presence of inflammation in the body.
Anti-clotting Effect
Strawberry consumption may protect against blood clot formation. An animal study found strawberries had a powerful anti-clotting effect.
Prevention of Atherosclerosis
Ellagic acid has anti-inflammatory properties and may play an important role in the prevention of arterial plaques (atherosclerosis).
Prevents Neuronal and Behavioral Aging
Strawberries may protect against the decline of the central nervous system in age-related neurodegenerative diseases. Research suggests that the polyphenolic compounds found in berry fruits, such as blueberries and strawberries, may exert their beneficial effects either through their ability to lower oxidative stress and inflammation, or directly by altering the signaling involved in neuronal communication.
Reduce Risk of Rheumatoid Arthritis
One of the benefits of strawberries may be protection against rheumatoid arthritis. A large population based study of more than 20,000 people found that consumption of foods high in vitamin C seem to protect against inflammatory polyarthritis, a form of rheumatoid arthritis involving two or more joints.
Prevent Ultraviolet Skin Damage
Ellagic acid may help prevent wrinkles and repair skin damage caused by the sun. Researchers applied ellagic acid to human skin cells in the lab. Ellagic acid reduced the destruction of collagen and inflammatory response, both major causes of wrinkles.