We are very excited at Stella Nutrition because the Wimbledon tournament is almost here and so it’s the great tradition of having strawberries and cream. This combination was originally consumed by royalty, but it is now a ritual among all tournament fans.
Strawberries smell beautifully, taste delicious and they are also packed with nutrients. Provided you are not allergic to them, there are plenty of good reasons to add them to your summer menu.
They are an excellent source of vitamin c which is a powerful antioxidant protecting the body from free radicals damage. Vitamin c is also important for immunity, cardiovascular health, collagen formation, and cancer prevention. Strawberries are also a great source of manganese, a vital mineral for bone health, blood sugar balance and the metabolism of fats and carbohydrates.
This yummy fruits also contains various phytonutrients (plant based nutrients) including anthocyanins which provide them with their rich red colour and their powerful anti-inflammatory properties. They also contain decent amounts of potassium which is involved in regulating blood pressure.
Consuming berries, not just strawberries, has been associated with a decreased risk of developing many chronic illnesses including cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes.
Strawberries are also low in sugar and rich in fibre, so they are great if you are trying to lose weight…..just go easy with the cream! You could try having them with a little plain yogurt instead.
The way I love to eat strawberries is very simple. I chop them, put them in a big bowl, sprinkle with lemon juice and let them rest in the fridge for at least 1 hour before serving them. This is a summer ‘dessert’ I grew up with in Italy and it reminds me of summer afternoons spent in the garden with friends and my dad playing guitar and singing. Simply perfect! However, if you find them too sour with just the lemon juice you could add a bit of xylitol on top.
May your summer be filled with juicy strawberries, warm sunshine and amazing tennis!
For more information on how nutritional therapy can benefit you call 07772491975 or visit www.stellanutrition.com