New study links daily strawberry consumption to improved heart health

Daily strawberry consumption can significantly reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases, as per a new study emphasising on the health benefits of this popular fruit.

Strawberries are not only popular for their taste but also play a prominent role in promoting heart health. They are also known as America's favourite fruit, reported SciTech Daily.

At Nutrition 2024, the annual meeting of the American Society for Nutrition, a new study focusing on cardiovascular health and improved glucose control was presented. The meeting was held on June 30 in Chicago.

Dr Lasantha Krishan Hirimuthugoda, who is a postdoctoral research associate at the Illinois Institute of Technology, presented the research findings.

The dose-related effects of strawberry fruit intake on endothelial function and glucose control are part of the study’s aimed investigation. It specifically focuses on investigating the relationship of flow-mediated dilation (FMD) responses to intervention on cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk.

With a body mass index (BMI) of 29.8±4.8 kg/m2, 36 women and 32 men, aged 20 to 62 years were included in the study.

The effects of strawberry intake on FMD as well as the relationship of the FMD responses to intervention on CVD risk were assessed by the researchers.

Eating strawberries daily for 4 weeks compared to control suggesting a dose-response toward higher to lower median, respectively, significantly influenced the FMD percentage (Kruskal-Wallis test, p<0.001).

Additionally, no significant differences between interventions in changes from baseline were suggested by the preliminary analyses of CGM (Kruskal-Wallis test p>0.05).

“A diet low in fruit is among the top three risk factors for cardiovascular disease and diabetes,” said co-author Britt Burton-Freeman, PhD, professor at the Illinois Institute of Technology.

He added: “Adding as little as one cup of strawberries a day to your diet may show beneficial effects on your cardiovascular health.”

Notably, the daily recommended value of vitamin C is fulfilled by a serving of 8 strawberries (one cup). A host of other nutrients and beneficial bioactive compounds are also provided by this fruit.