Strawberries
Strawberries are the most popular American berry with over seventy varieties of this nutrient-rich food in existence.
The succulent berry you enjoy today is the result of several centuries of crossbreeding of North America's native and a Chilean variety. If you're a strawberry lover, try European Alpine strawberries — the diminutive, potently sweet wild strawberries of France also known as "fraises des bois" or "strawberries of the woods".
Nutritionally speaking, these boisterous berries boast a basket full of cancer-fighters including an excellent source of vitamin C, ellagic acid, p-coumaric acid and chlorogenic acid.
Because strawberries are on the Environmental Working Group's list of the most chemically contaminated foods - the Dirty Dozen - be sure to always pick organic.
Glycemic Index=40
Glycemic Load=1
Antioxidant Score (ORAC)=3,577
The Benefits
- Special diets: Autoimmune Paleo Diet, Elimination Diet, Gluten-Free Diet, Gluten-Free/Dairy-Free Diet, Grain-Free Diet, High Protein Diet, Low FODMAP Diet, Low Oxalate Diet, Low Starch Diet, Paleo Diet (Light), Paleo Diet (Strict), Pescetarian Diet, Primal Diet, Vegetarian Diet, Whole Food
- Excellent Source of: VitaminC, Manganese
- Good Source of: Fiber
- Preferences: No Fish, No Red Meat, No Pork, No Eggs, No Shellfish, No Gluten, No Nuts, No Soy, No Dairy, No Poultry, No Molds, No Citrus, No Coconut, No Pseudograins, No Seeds, No Corn, No Yeast, No Peanuts, No Nightshade, No Legumes, No Grains, Low Carbohydrate, Low Cholesterol, Low Fat, Low Sodium, Low Saturated Fat
Related Foods
Related Nutrients
Selecting and Storing
Fresh strawberries are available year-round in many regions of the country, with the peak season from April to June. Choose brightly colored, plump berries that still have their leaves attached. Avoid soft, shriveled or moldy berries. Do not wash until ready to use, and store in a dry container in the refrigerator for 2 to 3 days.
