THE BENEFITS OF EATING INCREDABLY NUTRITIOUS STRAWBERRIES
A STAPLE IN CYPRUS
Produced all over the island, but in particular around the village of Deryneia in the east of the island, strawberries have become a staple in Cyprus. The benefits of regularly eating fresh strawberries are numerous and varied, and incorporating them into a regular diet may also help reduce the risk of several chronic diseases. Regular consumption of this fruit is proven to support both the immune system and the digestive tract.
THE BENEFITS OF A BALANCED DIET
Low in calories, a daily supply of strawberries is regularly recommended by most diets. Along with a wide range of health benefits, strawberries act as an excellent supplement for those looking to maintain a healthy weight. Daily consumption is thought to boost overall well-being. A daily intake of strawberries is also thought to help lower blood pressure, improve heart health, and reduce the overall risk of certain types of cancer. This vibrant, incredibly nutritious fruit also offers a refreshing cool reprieve on a hot day.
SEVERAL HEALTH BENEFITS
PACKED WITH VITAMINS & MINERALS
Packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, eating this juicy berry as part of a balanced diet, will help meet the daily amount of recommended vitamin C and fibre. They are also a good source of important nutrients such as potassium, foliate, and manganese.
VITAMIN C
Vitamin C plays a crucial role in supporting the immune system and helps to ward off infections and several illnesses.
FIBRE
Fibre is essential for good digestive health, and a diet rich in fibre, promotes a healthy gut by regulating the movement of the bowel by preventing constipation. A fibre-rich diet is also a factor for lowering the risk of developing chronic diseases such as heart disease and diabetes.
ANTIOXIDANTS
Antioxidants help to protect the body against oxidative stress and inflammation. Antioxidants are also considered to have anti-cancer properties.
POTASSIUM
Potassium is essential for regulating blood pressure and maintaining proper muscle function.
FOLIATE
Foliate helps maintain cell division and DNA synthesis.
MANGANESE
Manganese plays an important role in bone health and overall metabolism.
INTERESTING CYPRUS STRAWBERRY FACTS
- Strawberries are the first fruit to ripen each spring.
- The strawberry is the only fruit to wear its 200 or so seeds on the outside.
- Not technically a berry, strawberries are classed as accessory fruits.
- As a member of the rose family, the strawberry grows as a perennial bush and emits a sweet fragrance as it grows.
- The lesser-known tabletop method of cultivation, which keeps strawberry plants away from pests and soil diseases, is often employed when growing strawberries.
- Ancient Romans believed strawberries had medicinal powers and used them to treat everything from depression to fever and sore throats.
- Native Americans were among the earliest people to eat strawberries, introducing them to European settlers.
- Rinsing cut strawberries under water speeds up their spoiling process.
- There is a museum in Belgium solely dedicated to strawberries.
- There are three summer varieties and six winter varieties of strawberries grown throughout Cyprus.
- Camarosa, Ventana, and Albion are the most popular varieties of strawberry grown on the island.
- January marks the peak strawberry season in Cyprus.
- The largest strawberry plantations are in the districts of Famagusta and Limassol.
GENERAL STRAWBERRY FACTS
Botanical note: Strawberries are not really berries but are technically an aggregate accessory fruit. The small seeds on the surface that are known as ‘achenes’ are the true fruits and each one contains a single seed.
Varieties: Several varieties of strawberries are grown worldwide. In light of this, the flavour profile of this fruit ranges from intensely sweet to tart. Common types of strawberries include June-bearing, everbearing, and day-neutral varieties.
Nutrition: Strawberries are low in calories and high in vitamin C. They also provide fibre, manganese, and various antioxidants, including polyphenols. As strawberries ripen, sugar levels within the fruit increase, and acidity decreases. This enhances flavour and produces a fruity aroma. This blend of volatile compounds includes esters and aldehydes.
Seasons: In the Northern Hemisphere, peak strawberry season is usually late spring to early summer. In warmer regions, they are harvested for much of the year.
Quick tips for selecting: Avoid berries that are mushy or have mould. Look for a bright red colour and a fresh green cap. Good strawberries should have a plump and firm texture and a sweet fragrance.
Storage: Don’t wash strawberries until you’re ready to eat them. They should be stored in a breathable container in the fridge. They should also be consumed within a few days for the best quality.
Fun uses: Strawberries are great in salads, smoothies, ice cream, desserts, and jams. They also pair well with balsamic vinegar, chocolate, yoghurt, and mint.
Fun fact: The white core at the top of a strawberry, which is called the receptacle, coordinates the seeds on the surface.
