Summer is the time of seasonal berries that delight us with their taste, aroma and color. Strawberries and cherries are among the first berries to appear on shelves and in gardens. They are not only tasty, but also healthy, as they contain many vitamins, antioxidants, minerals and dietary fiber. However, nutritionist Manowska Jelena notes that recent research suggests that some people should avoid eating these fruits due to their potential negative health effects.
The benefits of strawberries and cherries
Strawberries are not only a berry, but also a medicinal plant used in folk medicine to treat various diseases.
It contains vitamins B, C, E, K, folic acid, beta-carotene, calcium, iron, magnesium, potassium and other trace elements. Strawberries help strengthen the immune system, lower blood cholesterol, cleanse the body of toxins, improve digestion and metabolism. It has anti-inflammatory, antibacterial and anti-allergic effects.
Cherries are also a valuable source of vitamins A, C, P, group B, folic acid, iron, potassium, magnesium and other useful substances. It helps to strengthen the heart and blood vessels, normalize blood pressure and blood sugar, prevent anemia and thrombosis. The berry helps remove excess fluid from the body, reduces swelling and inflammation. Cherries also have an antioxidant effect, protecting cells from free radicals.
Strawberry.
Image source: jcomp on Freepik
Damage of strawberries and cherries
Despite all the positive properties of strawberries and cherries, these berries are not suitable for everyone. There are a number of contraindications in which the use of these berries can do more harm than good.
Strawberries are among the most allergenic berries. It can cause rashes, itching, swelling of the face and throat, runny nose, watery eyes, and even anaphylactic shock in hypersensitive people. Therefore, people allergic to strawberries or other berries should avoid them or consume them in very small amounts.
“There is a common belief that strawberries can erode tooth enamel due to the acid they contain. However, recent studies show that this is not entirely accurate. Although these berries contain acid, they are also high in water, which helps to dilute the acid and However, people who are concerned about the impact of these fruits on dental health should consume them in moderation and rinse their mouths to water after meals,” explains Manovska Elena, general practitioner, nutritionist, expert at the Coral Club.
Cherries are rich in carbohydrates, glucose and fructose. This can cause high blood sugar in people with diabetes or prediabetes. Therefore, they must control the amount of cherries consumed and monitor their glycemic index. Also, cherries can cause indigestion in people with gastritis or stomach ulcers due to their acidity.
In addition, nutritionist, member of the National Society of Dietitians and Nutritionists and the European Association for the Study of Obesity Olga Dekker notes that people who have problems with certain diseases and take certain medications should be more be careful with these berries:
“Some people should limit their intake of strawberries and cherries or seek medical advice if: they are allergic to these berries or other fruits; they have kidney or bladder problems associated with stones or gout; or if they are taking certain medications that may interact with strawberries or cherries. In this case, you should consult your doctor.”
Cherries.
Photo source: azerbaijan_stockers on Freepik
Recommendations from doctors
To get the maximum benefit and avoid possible side effects, the following recommendations should be followed:
Eat berries in the morning or in the afternoon before 4 p.m. as a dessert after the main meal or as a snack with the addition of protein foods such as yogurt, cottage cheese or cheese. This will help avoid a sharp rise in blood sugar and excessive weight gain.
Observe the optimal dosage per day – do not exceed 18-20 cherries or 5-6 large strawberries. Avoid excessive consumption, as this may be contrary to the principles of good nutrition.
Acquire fresh, ripe berries without damage and stains. It is better to buy berries in reliable stores or markets in accordance with the storage rules. Before use, it is recommended to thoroughly rinse the berries under running water.
Avoid combining the berries with other foods, especially dairy products, as this can cause enzymatic fermentation in the stomach and upset digestion. It is recommended to take the berries separately or add them to salads or desserts to avoid possible negative consequences.
“The recommended daily allowance for strawberries varies by age, gender, and overall health. According to the American Heart Association, adults should aim to eat at least four servings of fruit per day, including strawberries.Children 2-6 years old should have 1 cup of fruit per day, and children 7-18 years old should have 1.5-2 cups of fruit per day.It is important to note that eating too much strawberries can lead to excessive sugar consumption, which can lead to weight gain and other health problems,” notes general practitioner, nutritionist, Coral Club expert Elena Manovska.
Strawberries and cherries are useful berries for human health. They contain many vitamins and minerals that strengthen the immune system, heart and blood vessels, cleanse the body of toxins and protect against free radicals. But these berries also have their contraindications for people with allergies, diabetes or stomach problems.
Read the Latest Sports News Today on The Eastern Herald.
