Page 48 - Robeson Living Spring 2021

STRAWBERRIES

Healthy, Convenient and Delicious

Fresh strawberries are not only for their delicious taste but for According to findings from Yale’s Prevention Research Cen-
the nutritional benefits they offer you and your family. Think ter and several recognized health and nutrition experts, straw-
about it, just eight medium strawberries contain more vitamin berries, raw spinach and blueberries ranked 100 (the highest
C than one orange. possible nutrient density score) in a system called the Over-
all Nutrition Quality Index (ONQI). The system ranks foods
Strawberries are virtually fat free, contain no cholesterol and on a numeric scale indicating that strawberries are one of the
are an excellent source of folic acid that helps the body me- healthiest food choices around. Ranking foods based on their
tabolize protein. They are a good source of potassium too. You nutrient density is not a new idea. According to the Dietary
can eat them out-of-hand, on the run. Just wash and bite — Guidelines for Americans, nutrient-dense foods are those pro-
anytime, anyplace. viding the greatest amounts of vitamins and minerals with the
fewest calories. Strawberries fill the bill.
Research by the USDA indicates that strawberries may help
fight cancer, heart disease and other ills. They are low in calo- Health, convenience and deliciousness are just three reasons
ries (about 45 per serving) and high in ellagic acid, which is strawberries are such a popular produce pick. Robeson County
believed to help reduce the risk of cancer. A serving size of conveniently has growers across the county. Let’s pick some
strawberries is one cup (5 oz.). berries!!!

Page 48 Robeson Living ~ Spring 2021