THE BENEFITS OF EATING STRAWBERRIES
INCREDIBLY NUTRITIOUS
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. Incorporating them into a regular diet may also help reduce the risk of several chronic diseases, and the fruit has also been proven to support the immune system and digestive tract.
REFRESHING & NUTRITIOUS
This vibrant, incredibly nutritious fruit, also offers a refreshing cool reprieve on a hot day. Eating them daily boosts overall well-being, whilst offering a wide range of benefits.
THE BENEFITS OF A BALANCED DIET
According to various studies, conducted over the years, strawberries offer a wide range of health benefits. These studies suggest that regular consumption may help lower blood pressure, improve heart health, and reduce the risk of certain types of cancer.
LOW IN CALORIES
Low in calories, strawberries have also become very popular in Cyprus in recent years. A daily supply of strawberries is regularly recommended by most diets. They act as an excellent supplement for those looking to maintain a healthy weight.
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. This helping 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 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 dedicated to strawberries.
- There are three summer varieties and six winter varieties of starwberrys grown throughout Cyprus.
- The most popular varieties of strawberry grown on the island are Camarosa, Ventana, and Albion.
- The peak strawberry season in Cyprus begins in January.
- The largest strawberry plantations are in the district of Famagusta and Limassol.
