Summer, strawberries & successful weight loss programs

source: worldcommunitycookbook.org

Strawberries are one of the most delicious fruits of summer. They’re an ideal food for those following weight loss programs, and are packed with antioxidants, nutrients and fiber. Plus, their sweetness can curb your sweet tooth so you don’t go off track with fattening, sugar-laden indulgences.

For thousands of years, the strawberry was considered a luxury item, savored only by royalty and the wealthier classes. What most people don’t know is that strawberries have been used for their therapeutic properties for as long as they’ve been eaten. With their strong content of antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties, they’ve been found to be a natural complement to both eastern and western medicine.

Much research has shown that the nutrient content of strawberries contributes to improved cardiovascular health in a variety of ways. With their extremely high fiber content, they help to fight obesity by staving off hunger. By replacing sugary treats with strawberries, patients have a much easier time staying on track with all types of weight loss programs. Strawberries have also been shown to have positive effects on blood vessels and platelets, therefore decreasing the risk of coronary heart diseases. In addition, they boast a great deal of heart healthy nutrients such as vitamin C, B1, B6 and K, as well as iodine, manganese, potassium and pantothenic acid.

In addition to high antioxidants levels, strawberries have such a strong vitamin C content that they help to lower blood pressure and LDL (bad) cholesterol levels.  Medical weight loss clinics are big proponents of foods that are rich in vitamin C, as they naturally boost immunity and helps ward off chronic disease and illnesses.

Strawberries have also been found to have significant anti-inflammatory properties, somewhat due to a high percentage of manganese, a powerful antioxidant that helps to battle free radicals, oxidative stress and cellular inflammation. Manganese is also essential to building strong bones and maintaining structure.

Another reason why strawberries are often recommended by physicians at medical weight loss clinics is because of the significant research showing that the ellagic acid present in many red and dark fruits and berries can boost activity among cancer-fighting cells.

Foods like strawberries make it easy for individuals to fight obesity and lose weight. A healthy diet packed with antioxidant-rich foods like strawberries, coupled with an exercise program that includes group workouts, cardio and resistance training, can help prevent potentially dangerous diseases and help you live a longer, healthier life.