Strawberries: useful properties and contraindications

Juicy and fragrant strawberries help regulate blood sugar levels and strengthen the immune system. They are also incredibly tasty, and they can be used to prepare a variety of dishes. Many people consider such a useful berry as something ordinary, but meanwhile strawberries have many amazing properties, which should be considered in more detail.

What is the difference between strawberries and strawberries

Botanically, strawberries and strawberries are two different plants, although they belong to the same genus and family. In total, there are about 30 species in the wild in this genus. Most commonly in everyday life, the word "strawberry" is understood to mean wild strawberries. Today it is mostly collected in the woods, but grown in gardens very rarely, because its berries have too small size.

And what in everyday life is called a strawberry, in fact, in terms of botany is a pineapple strawberry or garden strawberry. In nature, this species does not exist. But it was not bred on purpose either. The garden strawberry arose on its own due to a coincidence of circumstances. Its progenitors were two species, the Virginia strawberry and the Chilean strawberry. Both were introduced to France from America because they attracted botanists' attention by their larger berries.

Unfortunately, both species were inferior to the common strawberry in their taste qualities. The royal botanist planted their bushes next to each other in the Versailles garden, and because of accidental pollination a new species appeared - with large, fragrant and very sweet berries. This species was called pineapple strawberry, or garden strawberry. And its first bred variety was named Victoria - in honor of the Queen of England. Although garden strawberries came to Russia a long time ago, breeding work did not begin until the 1920s. Then varieties more resistant to the local climate appeared, which was the beginning of mass breeding of the berry, which is commonly called strawberry.

It should be noted that there has been some confusion with the names. In everyday life, strawberries are called pineapple strawberries, described above. But in botany this name was fixed for the strawberry muscatine, which has a specific flavor. Its berries resemble small balls. Unlike pineapple strawberry, this species even today can be found in the wild, for example, in southern Russia and Ukraine, as well as in some areas of Kazakhstan. Once upon a time, strawberry nutmeg was grown in gardens, there were even several varieties of it. But it could not withstand competition with pineapple strawberries. So today it is called strawberry only in scientific and encyclopedic literature, but not in everyday life.

Composition and calories

Despite the fact that strawberries contain a lot of carbohydrates, its energy value is relatively low. It is only 32.5-35 kcal per 100 grams, depending on the variety.

The useful properties of this berry are due to its chemical composition, which includes:

1. Organic acids, necessary for normalizing metabolism and performing many other functions in the biochemical processes occurring in the body.
2. Fibers, that is, dietary fiber, which are necessary for normal digestion and removal of toxins from the body.
3. Vitamin C and various antioxidants, including natural pigments that color the pulp red. They help strengthen the cardiovascular system, have anti-inflammatory effects.
4. B vitamins involved in metabolic processes. They normalize hematopoiesis, are important for cognitive functions and for normal functioning of the nervous system. In addition, they are involved in the synthesis of the so-called happy hormones.
5. Vitamin E itself is a strong antioxidant, preventing premature aging. In addition, it plays an important role in the normal functioning of the reproductive system, increases muscle endurance, and has a beneficial effect on heart function.
6. Calcium - on the one hand, it is useful because without it it is impossible to achieve normal blood clotting, it is also responsible for the conduction of nerve impulses and for the strengthening of teeth and bones. But on the other hand, calcium, which forms oxalate salts under the influence of acids, can lead to the development of concrements, which makes us consume strawberries with caution.
7. Sodium, potassium and magnesium - provide water balance and good functioning of the heart muscle.
8. Phosphorus - involved in metabolic processes, necessary for cognitive abilities, good heart function.
9. Iron - is involved in the essential processes of hematopoiesis.
10. Boron - prevents the development of osteoporosis, very important for strengthening bone tissue.
11. Zinc - has anti-inflammatory properties, it is necessary for healing wounds and trophic ulcers that can occur in people with diabetes. Its presence contributes to better absorption of vitamin A and ascorbic acid.
12. Other elements necessary for normal functioning of the body - such as fluorine, copper, iodine (so important for the thyroid gland), manganese, etc.

Of the organic acids, salicylic acid is especially noteworthy. It has some antibacterial effect when applied externally. But more importantly, when used internally, it has an antipyretic effect, albeit not as strong as in ready-made drugs. This allows the use of strawberries as an aid in treating flu and other infections.

What are the benefits of strawberries

General benefits

Strawberries are recommended for consumption because they have the following properties:

1. Strengthens the immune system, prevents influenza and acute respiratory infections.
2. It has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effects.
3. Reduces "bad" cholesterol and prevents the development of atherosclerosis.
4. Reduces appetite and helps to control weight.
5. Has a mild diuretic effect.
6. Helps cleanse the kidneys and liver.
7. Can be used to treat skin conditions.
8. Copes with problems such as constipation (and the leaves, on the contrary, are effective for diarrhea).
9. Eliminates intestinal dysbacteriosis.
10. Regulates the level of sugar in the blood.
11. Thanks to the content of salicylic acid is effective in the treatment of rheumatism and other diseases of the joints.

Also, the substances it contains can cope with insomnia and depression. Thanks to the strawberry is faster recovery from serious illnesses. It saves from avitaminosis, chronic fatigue and loss of strength.

For women

For the fair sex, strawberries are important because they contain not only calcium, but also boron, which helps to prevent osteoporosis - the risk of this disease increases significantly during menopause. Also strawberries are very good for blood vessels. Its regular consumption helps reduce homocysteine levels in the body. But this amino acid is very dangerous, because it can provoke damage to arterial membranes. Due to the fact that its amount decreases, blood vessels become stronger. In combination with the rest of the substances, this leads to a reduced risk of congestion, thrombosis, varicose veins, etc.

Antioxidants and flavonoids in strawberries also protect patients from stroke and heart attack. They also prevent premature aging and make the skin look younger and firmer.

Strawberries contain a lot of potassium, which is necessary for normal functioning of the heart muscle. It is important at any age, but for ladies during menopause, when natural defense mechanisms stop working, it is especially important. In addition, potassium allows to balance sodium, so that there is no excess of this element.

For men

Vitamin C and other substances in strawberries improve blood circulation and can restore potency. Vitamin E improves heart function and at the same time is beneficial for reproductive function. That's why strawberries in moderate amounts are very useful for the representatives of the stronger half of mankind.

Zinc, which is contained in strawberries, allows you to prevent inflammatory prostate diseases. In addition, strawberries are considered an aphrodisiac, it increases libido and gets rid of erectile dysfunction by improving blood circulation.

Men are more affected by cardiovascular diseases than women. That's why strawberries are especially good for them. One of their antioxidants (anthocyanin) reduces the risk of heart attack by about 30%. Another antioxidant, quercetin, prevents the development of atherosclerosis and helps compensate for the damage caused by "bad" cholesterol.

Pregnancy.

Due to the high content of B vitamins and folic acid, strawberries are considered very useful berries for the first trimester of pregnancy. After all, these substances are necessary for the formation of the nervous system of the fetus and its proper development. Experts say that it is even more useful to start eating strawberries in preparation for conception, but, of course, not every woman is so serious about family planning.

During pregnancy, strawberries are also useful because they contain soft fiber. This helps to gently stimulate intestinal peristalsis and thus solve the problem of constipation, which is often faced by future mothers.

In addition, this berry has a mild diuretic effect, which allows you to quickly remove excess fluid from the body. This solves the problem of edema, which usually occurs in the second and third trimester of pregnancy. At the same time, strawberries do not increase the load on the kidneys, as diuretics do, which is also very important for future moms.

At the same time, strawberries during pregnancy should be used with caution. Even if the expectant mother did not have an allergic reaction to these berries before, but had similar reactions to something else, it is better to refrain from eating strawberries. Especially do not use berries that were brought from abroad out of season - they are greenhouse fruits, which contain no useful substances, except fiber. But they can do a lot of harm because of the chemicals they contain, which they are treated for accelerated ripening or resistance to transport.

When Breastfeeding.

During lactation, strawberries can be beneficial for both mother and baby, because they contain many vitamins and minerals, as well as fiber and salicylic acid. This berry helps to stimulate the metabolism to get into shape faster after childbirth. In addition, it cleanses the intestines of toxins, which helps to improve the overall well-being of a young mother.

However, introduce strawberries into the diet during breastfeeding should be very gradually, just like any other new product, and even with more caution. The reason is that the same red pigment that gives strawberries their beneficial properties, can also cause allergies in both the mother and the baby. So the first berries can be introduced into the diet of a nursing woman only when the baby is 1 month old. Start with just one berry, which is eaten in the morning with breakfast. After that the whole day to watch the reaction of the baby to a new product - no rash on the skin, did not appear runny nose, whether the color or consistency of the bowel movements. If all went well, then the next morning you can eat 3-5 berries, but you still need to monitor the child's condition during the day. If at this time, and there were no adverse reactions, you can eat a dozen berries, but more still do not need.

For children

Many babies are very fond of bright and fragrant strawberries. Indeed, such low-calorie, but at the same time rich in useful substances, strawberries seem ideal for children's food.

Therefore, healthy children who do not have problems with the gastrointestinal tract or atopic dermatitis, strawberries are introduced into the diet as early as one year old. But if the child has already shown a tendency to allergic reactions, it is better to postpone acquaintance with it until the age of 2 years.

Children can be given both fresh and frozen strawberries. If the latter were well dried and frozen according to all the rules, it certainly retained all the useful substances. But it's better to defrost them in the fridge, so that they don't lose their flavor, aroma and the very shape of berries. From frozen strawberries babies can boil compote, cook kissel or make berry puree.

Can I Eat Strawberries While Losing Weight

Strawberries contain many vitamins, flavonoids and organic acids, which help to eliminate toxins, improve digestion and speed up the metabolism. Therefore, these berries promote weight loss. The strawberry diet is considered an effective option. Depending on the specific situation, its duration should be 4-8 days, and during this time you can lose 2-5 pounds of excess weight.

The strawberry diet is considered to be quite tough. Emphasis at this time is made on strawberries. Every day you should eat at least 0.7 kg of this berry. But this is not a mono-diet, and the ration is not limited to strawberries alone. In the morning, you can combine this product with oatmeal, unsweetened yogurt or cottage cheese, and for the second breakfast or afternoon snack can be added with whole-wheat toast or hard cheese. For lunch or dinner, include boiled turkey or chicken and seafood dishes on the menu. In addition, strawberries, fresh cucumbers and spicy greens can be used to make delicious and healthy salads.

But, of course, during this time you will have to give up pasta, buns, sweets, fatty meats, cream, etc.

Some people find this diet difficult to follow purely psychologically, because they lack variety. After all, the specified amount of strawberries should be divided into five meals, and it turns out that the whole day in the diet will be dominated by this berry. In that case, you can supplement it with other seasonal berries with low calories, such as blueberries or blackberries. You can even make fruit salads with them, dressing them with nonfat yogurt. This will save you from being monotonous.

Before you arrange yourself a strawberry diet, you should definitely consult with your doctor. The fact is that there are certain contraindications. For example, strawberries can not be used with gastritis. Its constituent organic acids negatively affect already inflamed mucous membranes of the stomach, and the small seeds can traumatize them. In addition, strawberries have a diuretic effect. In chronic kidney disease this can only worsen the situation, so it is better to make an ultrasound beforehand, even if it seems that at the moment there are no problems.

The Benefits of Strawberry Leaves

Useful properties have not only the berries of garden strawberries, but also its leaves and roots. And their chemical composition is such that in some diseases they work even more effectively than the berries themselves. The fact that they contain not only vitamins and minerals that are present in the strawberries themselves, but also phytoncides - substances that are rightly called herbal antibiotics. They have an antimicrobial effect and cope very well with inflammation.

Due to such a unique chemical composition, strawberry leaves:

1. They are effective for inflammatory diseases of the throat, in particular for sore throat and laryngitis.
2. Unlike the berries themselves, they help treat inflammatory diseases of the gastrointestinal tract, liver and kidneys.
3. They allow you to eliminate toxins faster, have a mild choleretic effect, which helps to avoid stagnation.
4. Normalize blood pressure, including through the expansion of blood vessels.
5. Beneficial effect on the heart muscle, regulating the frequency of contractions.
6. Help to get rid of anemia and chronic fatigue.

In addition, this plant has a healing effect, so fresh leaves are applied to wounds so they heal faster.

Strawberry leaves are used not only fresh, but also dried. They are best harvested in August and September. Before starting the drying process, they are washed with water. Then they are naturally dried and left to dry in the sun for a few hours. During this time, they become soft and are kneaded by hand and then dried in an oven or outdoors.

In winter, they are used to make infusions or teas, the recipes for which will be described below. These drinks are used not only for therapeutic, but also for preventive purposes. In particular, it is recommended to drink them to prevent the formation of stones in the kidneys or gallbladder.

Are the strawberry tails useful?

Many hostesses snip strawberry tails and immediately send them to the trash. And completely in vain, because they are just as useful as the leaves and berries. First, strawberry tails contain a lot of chlorophyll. This element is useful not only for plants. In the human body, it is necessary for blood purification and normal production of red blood cells. The latter are responsible for the transfer of oxygen to all tissues with hemoglobin. Thus, the consumption of strawberry tails allows you to avoid problems associated with low hemoglobin levels.

Secondly, the same chlorophyll stimulates blood circulation, and therefore the body gets rid of toxins faster. So strawberry tails can be considered an excellent tool for detoxification of the body. Because of their composition, they can normalize blood sugar levels, which is very important for people suffering from diabetes. Finally, strawberry tails contain beneficial substances that improve the condition of the skin, giving it a smooth and healthy color.

Strawberry tails are logical to use in the summer, while they are fresh. But the useful substances remain in the dried tails. Therefore, they can and should be prepared for the winter. To do this, they only need to be well washed and dried naturally. Then put preparations in a paper bag or glass jar, tightly covered with a lid. In this form, they can be stored all winter if placed in a dark and dry place.

In the cold season, you can make a drink from them to help cope with colds. To do this, take 15 strawberry tails, 1 tsp. green tea, a couple of rose hips and brewed with a glass of boiling water. The drink is infused for 10 minutes, then strain and drink a little at a time before it cools.

The benefits of strawberries in combination with other foods

Very often nutritionists advise to use strawberries with dairy products. Many will agree that this way this berry becomes even more delicious. It remains only to understand what role dairy products play in this case.

With cream

Strawberries are considered a low-calorie dietary product, so the recommendation to eat them in combination with heavy cream may seem a little strange. But the fact is that the useful properties of strawberries are due to the high content of carotene (it is often called the vitamin of vision). However, it is a fat-soluble substance, that is, it is assimilated by the body to the full extent only when it is combined with fats. That is what cream provides in this tandem. Of course, since they are a high-calorie product, they are used with caution, in moderation, choosing not the most fatty version.

You should also consider that strawberries contain salicylic and oxalic acids, and in large quantities. In pure form, they can provoke exacerbation of inflammatory joint diseases. In addition, they are the cause of tooth decay. Cream helps to reduce the aggressive effects of these acids.

With milk

Like cream, milk promotes the absorption of carotene contained in strawberries. Therefore, on the basis of milk and berries make delicious and healthy cocktails. Only milk for this purpose should be taken low-fat. It is also necessary to be careful with the consumption of this drink. The fact is that the strawberries themselves can provoke bloating and flatulence in many people, and in combination with milk this problem only increases.

With kefir

It is believed that it is useful to eat strawberries with sour cream or kefir, because these products contain fats that promote the absorption of carotenes. However, kefir is much more suitable for this purpose than sour cream. The fact is that strawberries contain oxalic acid, which combines with the calcium in sour cream to form insoluble calcium oxalate. This leads to a decrease in its stock in the body, which can provoke joint pain, the development of osteoarthritis, osteochondrosis and even osteoporosis. While the calcium contained in strawberries, in this case, is not absorbed by the body. In addition, the presence of oxalates can lead to the formation of kidney stones, salt diathesis and gout.

When strawberries are consumed with kefir (or whole milk), the calcium contained in them also forms oxalates, but they transit through the intestines, do not accumulate in the renal pelvis, and in general it is much safer. Many experts consider kefir and yogurt ideal companions of this berry.

Useful properties of strawberry preserves

Strawberry season lasts relatively short, only about a month - and only in the presence of favorable conditions. Therefore, hostesses are trying to use such ways of strawberry preserving, which would help preserve all of its useful properties.

The benefits of frozen strawberries

This is a delicate berry, it is not as easy to freeze as others. But still with this method it is possible to preserve the maximum amount of useful substances. The technology of freezing the product will be discussed below.

The benefits of dried strawberries

Dried strawberries, of course, in terms of their taste qualities are significantly inferior to fresh berries. However, it retains many useful substances. As well as fresh berries, dried strawberries speed up metabolism and promote weight loss, normalize hemoglobin levels in blood and prevent anemia associated with iron deficiency. Also, studies have shown that dried strawberries are much healthier for the stomach and intestines because they are less irritating to the mucous membranes. It protects these organs from free radicals and malignant tumors. And for prevention purposes, it is enough to eat only 10-15 berries a day.

All these useful properties are preserved for 2 years. To the product does not spoil, keep the dried berries should be hermetically sealed in a glass jar, which is placed in a dark and dry place.

The benefits of jam from strawberries

The very method of cooking jam involves thermal effects. This destroys vitamin C and some other useful substances contained in strawberries. In addition, the combination of strawberries and sugar can not be called particularly useful. Nevertheless, some useful substances are preserved.

In addition, there are recipes for making without cooking, when fresh berries just pour syrup, which allows you to save more vitamins and antioxidants. And if there are no contraindications to the use of sugar, this method can be considered optimal.

The benefits of strawberry compote

Of course, this drink is not as useful as fresh strawberries. But it allows you to save most of the useful substances contained in the berry. And the main advantage of compote is that it can be preserved to receive these useful substances in the cold season.

The benefits of strawberries with sugar

Many people think that such a preparation as strawberries with sugar will be beneficial. However, in fact, in terms of dietetics, it is not necessary to mix such ingredients. First, in such a case, the berry often becomes the cause of bloating and flatulence. Secondly, when combined with sugar, the acids that are contained in strawberries can cause joint and spine pain. Finally, it is simply a high-calorie product that should not be consumed with diabetes.

Strawberries in medicine

Modern medicine recognizes the benefits of strawberries. However, doctors warn that it is important to consume this berry correctly, so that it brings only one benefit without side effects.

For Diabetes Mellitus

Surprisingly, this sweet berry is also beneficial for diabetes. Of course, if we are talking about a moderate amount of it and its proper use. The fact is that strawberries contain antioxidants that fight inflammatory processes, which are complications of diabetes.

In addition, the fiber contained in berries, delays the processing of glucose in the digestive system, thereby eliminating its forced entry into the blood and regulates the sugar level. And just in the strawberries themselves, there is not much of it. But we must remember that with diabetes strawberries are good in the form of snacks - literally 100 grams for the second breakfast and afternoon snack in combination with non-fat yogurt, and only if there are no contraindications.

Important: The glycemic index of strawberries is 32 units.

In pancreatitis.

This disease is an inflammation of the pancreas. With an exacerbation of pancreatitis, strawberries are contraindicated in any form. During remission, you can use dried berries, drink strawberry kissel. And an infusion of strawberry leaves will help to restore pancreatic tissue faster.

Gastritis

With gastritis with increased acidity, fresh strawberries will have to be excluded from the diet, because the acids it contains will only aggravate the situation - and this applies not only to periods of acute disease, but also to the remission stage. You can drink strawberry kissel, although it will contain much less useful substances. However, many specialists recommend dried strawberries exactly as a remedy against gastritis, because it no longer contains so many acids, but the antioxidants that eliminate the inflammatory process remain.

For bowel

Fresh strawberries are not recommended for irritable bowel syndrome because they can cause severe bloating and flatulence. In addition, they increase peristalsis, which can also aggravate the disease. But dried strawberries are considered very useful for the gastrointestinal organs, including the intestines.

For constipation

Strawberries contain a lot of fiber, which not only allows you to eliminate harmful substances from the body, but also stimulates intestinal peristalsis, which helps to cope with constipation.

For gout

In Benjamin Franklin's time, strawberries were thought to help prevent gout attacks. Indeed, medicine has proven that the use of this berry can reduce swelling of the joints, relieve pain and even arrest inflammation. But it can only be eaten fresh or dried without sugar, which will only increase the pain and swelling. Although strawberries themselves do not contain purines, eating them with cream or fatty sour cream can lead to impaired salt metabolism. So the best option for gout is nonfat and unsweetened yogurt.

In colitis.

As with any other inflammatory diseases of the gastrointestinal organs, in colitis, it is not recommended to eat strawberries fresh, because the acids and fiber in this case will only aggravate the problems.

For the liver

Strawberries are considered a very useful product just for the liver, because it helps to remove toxins and at the same time has a mild choleretic effect.

With hemorrhoids

This berry is useful for hemorrhoids for several reasons. On the one hand, it contains a lot of vitamin C and antioxidants that help strengthen the walls of blood vessels and improve blood circulation, which is very important in this disease. On the other hand, it is very important to avoid constipation in hemorrhoids, and strawberries have a mild laxative effect without side effects.

For cholelithiasis

Since strawberries increase the secretion of bile, they are among the foods allowed in cholecystitis. But for the same reason, it should be used with caution and only after consultation with a doctor, if the pathology is accompanied by the formation of stones.

Recipes of folk medicine based on strawberries

This berry is widely used in folk medicine. At the same time, other parts of the plant are also used, for example, leaves. As an example, the following remedies can be given:

1. With colds accompanied by sore throat, with bacterial infections of the oral cavity, as well as for the prevention of gum pathologies, use an infusion of berries. Make it as follows: take 2-3 large fresh berries per serving, knead in a porcelain or ceramic mortar (but not metal, to avoid oxidation), then put into a prepared glass jar, pour a glass of boiling water. Insist the remedy for 20 minutes. It should rinse your throat and mouth 5 times a day. The infusion should be warm, but not hot.
2. For the prevention of anemia is recommended to eat 0.5 kg of fresh berries every day. You can also use dried berries, but in smaller quantities, because the concentration of useful substances in them is higher.
3. Strawberry compresses and dressings are used in the presence of trophic ulcers or slowly healing wounds. To prepare a compress, take fresh ripe berries, rinse, additionally put in boiling water to prevent bacteria from getting into the wound, and knead with a fork. The resulting mass is applied to the wound, covered with clingfilm, fixed with a bandage, leave for 30-40 minutes, then remove the rest of the mass with a cotton pad.
4. When small kidney stones, inflammatory processes in the bladder, bile stasis, flu and acute respiratory infections are recommended to drink tea made from strawberry leaves. They are collected in August-September, when the plant stops bearing fruit, dried outdoors under a shed, then stored in glass jars covered with paper (or in canvas bags). Before making tea from the leaves, they are crushed, at least broken into 2-4 pieces. For 1 cup of such a remedy, 2 large strawberry leaves are needed. They are brewed with boiling water and insist for 5-10 minutes, and then strain and drink during the day, dividing into two or three equal portions. It is recommended to add 1 tsp. honey to improve the taste.
5. In diseases of the gums, in the presence of symptoms of food poisoning or minor intestinal infections, as well as diarrhea and bacterial infections of the throat take a strong infusion of strawberry leaves. To prepare the drink for 2 cups of boiling water take 6-8 leaves and infused for 40 minutes. It is best to use a thermos for this purpose.

The above remedies have additional effects - they have diuretic and diaphoretic effects. Therefore, they also reduce blood pressure and can be used in addition to antipyretic drugs.

Strawberries in cosmetology

The rich chemical composition of strawberries makes them an unusually useful product for home cosmetology as well.

For face

Masks made with fresh strawberries, used throughout the berry season, give a pronounced and quite long-lasting effect. Owners of dry skin are recommended to make such a procedure once a week for a month. For oily skin, the frequency is increased to two treatments per week. But the duration of the course is the same - one month. The following options can be used:

1. A mask for sensitive skin under the eyes. For its preparation, take fresh egg yolk, a few strawberries and a small amount of almond or olive oil. The product is left on the skin for 20 minutes and then rinsed off.
2. Anti-aging mask with a whitening effect. Sour cream of any fatness is mixed in a blender with fresh strawberries and applied to the skin for 15-20 minutes, and then washed off with warm water.
3. Mask for dry skin prone to peeling. Take 3-4 large berries, crush, mix with one fresh egg yolk and a little olive oil. To achieve a thicker consistency, add a little ground oat flakes. Mask applied to the skin for 15-20 minutes, then rinse and moisturizing cream.
4. A universal mask. It is made of fresh berries crushed into a puree and grated green cucumbers. The product is applied to the skin in the same way as in the previous variants.
5. Whitening mask. It is made on the basis of mashed strawberries or squeezed juice. In the latter case, the product is applied to the tampon, and then wipe the face with it.

However, remember that not always a strawberry mask is beneficial, sometimes they can do harm. Therefore, in some cases, this home cosmetics is simply contraindicated, for example, it can not be applied in the presence of open wounds and cuts, as well as traces of insect bites - even if it was just mosquitoes. The fact is that the berries contain a lot of acids, because of this the described problems will only worsen.

Also, the contraindication for strawberry masks is the individual sensitivity. After all, strawberries themselves are a fairly strong allergen. So first you should try this mask on a small area of skin, for example, on the wrist, and then apply it to the face. A contraindication is also the presence of inflammatory processes in the stage of exacerbation.

For hair

From strawberries can also do masks for the hair. For example:

1. For oily hair. Strawberries are crushed in a blender and mixed with two fresh egg yolks and blue pharmaceutical clay (take two tablespoons and diluted according to the manufacturer's instructions). The remedy is applied to the scalp, that is, only on the roots of the hair, it is not necessary on the entire length. Then a shower cap should be put on and a terry towel wrapped around the head. The product is kept for half an hour, then washed out with an ordinary shampoo.
2. For dry hair. Take kefir, which is slightly heated, not more than 38 degrees. It can also be replaced by drinking yogurt without additives. Pour the strawberry puree whipped in a blender with this drink, then add 2 tablespoons of olive oil to the mixture. The mask is applied to the entire length of the hair and to the area around the roots, too. Wrap plastic wrap over it and wrap your head with a terry towel. Mask hold for 40-60 minutes, then wash it off the usual way.
3. Nourishing mask. It is made of strawberries, banana and honey. It also holds for a long time, about an hour, but the result is worth it, as the hair becomes elastic and healthy shine.

Harms and contraindications

Although strawberries in general are considered a very useful berry, in a number of cases they are contraindicated. In particular, it should not be consumed by people suffering from hypertension, if they constantly take drugs containing enalapril. In combination with strawberries there is too much load on the liver.

Strawberries are contraindicated for those who suffer from gastrointestinal diseases - gastritis, ulcers, colitis, but only if we are talking about fresh berries. Kissel can be drunk in the period of remission, dried strawberries can also be consumed when there is no exacerbation. And, of course, in no case should strawberries be included in the diet of an allergic person.

With gout, arthritis, other joint diseases, strawberries are used with caution and only as described above - that is, without cream and sugar.

Strawberry allergy symptoms

Allergic reactions are caused by the red pigment that is part of these berries. Symptoms are standard for this disease - mainly a red rash or urticaria (it is not as harmless as it seems, and in severe cases can cause angioedema, fraught with anaphylactic shock). Therefore, if there is a rash, swelling, runny nose, accompanied by clear discharge, you must certainly take a tablet of antihistamine - tavegil, suprastin or histaphene.

How to Choose and Store Strawberries

When choosing berries, it is important to remember that they must be dry and whole, so you need to choose them carefully, especially if they are intended for later freezing. You should also pay attention to the color of berries. It should be bright or dark red, this is an important indicator of taste, because the strawberries, once picked, almost does not change its color. You should also pay attention to the "cap" and the tail: they must be green and intact. And of course, a ripe berry must have a strong and very rich flavor. If the berries have a dark red hue, and there is no smell, it may be a greenhouse strawberry, which has no useful properties.

If strawberries were grown without chemicals, under as natural conditions as possible, the berries will vary in size, since even on the same bush they have different sizes. Imported strawberries grown on hydroponics often differ in that all berries are large and, as they say, one to one. By the way, the smaller berries are often also sweeter.

Ideally, strawberries should not be stored at all, neither in the refrigerator nor without it. This is a delicate berry, and if you do not want to freeze it, you should buy it only in very small quantities to eat immediately. As a last resort, they may spend a day in the fridge, but then they mustn't be washed before consumption, otherwise they will lose their shape and the vitamins will start to decay. In general, if the strawberries have been grown with nitrates, then in the fridge they will have time to turn into nitrites, which are very dangerous carcinogenic substances.

Is it possible to freeze

Strawberries can be frozen. Only for this you need to carefully select berries and prepare them for this procedure. Rinse the strawberries very carefully, changing the water several times. You can freeze them whole, then there is no need to remove the stems, because without them, the berries lose their shape. You can also freeze strawberries with sugar (300 grams of fine sugar per 1 kg of berries), but it is not very useful. As an option - freeze in the form of puree, the berries in this case quite quickly can be chopped with a blender.

Can I dry them

Strawberries can and should be dried for the winter. You only need to select whole and undamaged berries, wash them, dry them, remove the stalks, cut into thin plates. You can dry them in the oven, a special dryer for fruit or in the open air. If you dry in the oven, you need to cover the baking tray with parchment. It is better to dry at minimum temperature, leaving the door half-open. Strawberries should dry for 2.5-3 hours on each side, perhaps more, depending on the thickness of the pieces and the wateriness of the berries.

It is better to air-dry strawberries on white paper, you should not use newspapers because of the printing ink. The drying process in this case is longer - at least 2-3 days (depending on weather conditions).

How to eat strawberries properly

It is believed that it is better to eat strawberries as a separate meal, so that they do not cause flatulence and fermentation. In this case, popular "companions" like sugar and champagne bring in this case only harm, increasing the negative phenomena and negating the benefits of berries.

How much can be eaten per day?

During a day, a healthy person can eat up to 0.5 kg of strawberries. Although this berry is considered low-calorie, a larger amount can lead to various troubles - for example, flatulence or increased load on the kidneys.

Can I eat them at night and on an empty stomach?

It is not recommended to eat strawberries on an empty stomach. They contain oxalic and salicylic acids, which irritate the mucous membranes of the stomach, even in people who do not have gastritis. So, the best option for eating strawberries is a snack between two meals.

You should not eat strawberries at night. They have a slight diuretic and laxative effect, so you won't be able to get a good night's sleep. The exception is when a person suffers from chronic constipation. Then a small amount of these berries, eaten at night, will help clear the bowels in the morning.

What can be cooked from strawberries: recipes

Mostly from strawberries make a variety of desserts. Although there are culinarians who add it to salads and soups, most still prefer the traditional options.

Jam

For 1 kg of strawberries, take the same amount of sugar, 2 g of citric acid, 3 tablespoons of water. Strawberries are thoroughly washed, changing the water several times, then cut off the tails. Fill berries with sugar and leave at room temperature overnight. During this time, the juice exudes from it, so the berries with it carefully stirred so as not to crush it. Then add citric acid diluted with water and cook the jam in the usual way - bring to a boil and leave for another 4 minutes over medium heat, so that the syrup is clear. If you gently stir the mass with a silicone spatula, the berries will remain whole. Ready jam poured into prepared jars.

Compote

To cook the compote, for 200 g of strawberries need 2-3 tablespoons of sugar. The berries are premixed with sugar and leave for half an hour to let them run dry. Then pour 1 liter of water, bring to a boil, leave on low heat for 4-5 minutes and turn off. You can serve this compote with fresh mint leaves.

Wine

Wine made from strawberries as well as other berries. For 3 kg of berries take 2 kg of sugar, 3 liters of water, if desired - another 100 grams of raisins. Strawberries are thoroughly washed, removed from the stems and kneaded into a homogeneous puree with a blender. Then put the pulp into a bowl with a large neck, add ready sugar syrup and mix. Raisins should be added to speed up the fermentation process. A container is filled to 3-4 volumes, so that then the mass does not overflow over the edge, put in a dark place, covered with gauze to protect against flies. Periodically, the mixture is stirred. All in all, the fermentation process takes about 60 days. When the wine is ready, it is decanted and poured into prepared bottles.

Jelly

Delicious jelly is a great option for winter preparation. For 1 liter of strawberry juice you will need 0.7 kg of granulated sugar, 10 g of gelatin and 400 ml of water. Gelatin is prepared in the usual way. Strawberry juice is obtained from ripe berries, passed the boiling procedure - they are kneaded with a wooden spoon and squeezed through gauze. After that, sugar is poured into the juice, syrup is boiled from it until it is completely dissolved, at the end of the process, gelatin is added, brought to a boil and poured into jars.

Ice cream

Strawberry ice cream is a simple and very tasty dessert. To make it, take 300 g of strawberries, 200 ml of cream, 100 ml of yogurt, 5-6 tablespoons of condensed milk. Strawberries are washed, remove the stems, chopped in a blender. Whip cream with powdered sugar with a mixer. Mix these two ingredients, add yoghurt and condensed milk, stir and leave in freezer.

Smoothie

This drink is best made with unsweetened, low-fat yogurt. In addition to 5-6 strawberries, you can add a banana to improve the taste, as well as 1 tsp. honey, if the berries turn out to be watery rather than too sweet. Whip it all in a blender and serve with ice.

Confit

Strawberry confit is a very delicate dessert. It is boiled without syrup, which means that no water is needed to make it. Boil for a short time, so that the berries retain their bright color and pectin is not destroyed. For 0.5 kg of strawberries take 0.3 kg of powdered sugar, 5 g of pectin or about 3 g of agar-agar, 1 g of citric acid, so that the confit does not turn out sugary, and a little cardamom.

Strawberries are chopped in a blender, then placed in a saucepan with powdered sugar and spices, bring to a boil and cook for no more than 4-5 minutes. Then pour the prepared agar-agar and add citric acid. The process of thickening will go almost immediately. Hot confit poured into jars.

Pastila

Although traditionally marshmallow is made from apples, it can also be made from strawberries. For 1 kg of berries take 100 grams of sugar. You can also add spices like cinnamon or cardamom. Strawberries should be sorted and washed, and the tails should be removed at the last moment so that the berries do not absorb too much water. Then, they are mashed with a blender and rubbed through a sieve to get rid of seeds. Then poured sugar in it, stir it thoroughly, put it on a stove and bring the mass to a boil. Boil it for 30 minutes over low heat, stirring occasionally to evaporate some of the moisture.

Tray lined with parchment paper, poured on it the resulting jam, while it is still hot to get a layer not thicker than 7-8 mm. After this marshmallow is dried in the oven at minimum temperature and with the door slightly ajar. You can also put in a special dryer for fruit. It takes about 4 hours. When the layer is dry and elastic, it is rolled and cut into portions.

Jelly

For 1 kg of strawberries take 0.5 kg of sugar. The berries are washed, crushed in a blender, add sugar and bring the jam to a boil. To make the mass more dense, you can increase the amount of sugar. But some hostesses add potato starch - 0.5 tbsp. for each kilo of berries. The jam is constantly stirred with a wooden spoon.

Juice

Berries are crushed with a blender, then squeezed through gauze. No additives for juice is not necessary. The pulp should not throw away - it is better to rub it through a sieve and make a marshmallow. Juice for the winter can be frozen.

Candied strawberries .

At 1.5 kg of strawberries take 1 kg of sugar and 200 ml of water. From this amount you get about 350 grams of candied fruit. From the water and sugar in a thick-walled pot boil syrup, when it boils, dipped strawberries. Then take it out, let it drain, bring the syrup to a boil again and dip the berries in it again. In total, this procedure is repeated seven times. After that, leave the berries to cool in the syrup, then take out the strawberries and leave them to drain. Cover a tray with parchment, put berries on it and leave to dry in the sun for 4-5 days. After that, they can be placed in containers and sent for storage in the freezer.

Chocolate covered strawberries.

This is a classic dessert that does not lose its relevance. In order to make it you should take 150g of fresh fruit, 100g of white chocolate, 100g of any dark chocolate, vegetable oil (grape seed oil is the best variant).

The berries are washed thoroughly under running water and dried on a paper towel. Tail do not need to remove. The berries are put on a board and cool in the refrigerator for 20 minutes. During this time, melt chocolate in a water bath (you can also do it in the microwave). It should melt completely, so that there are no large pieces.

Coat a metal rack or grid with vegetable oil and place it on spread out paper towels. Cold berries are dipped in melted chocolate (holding the tails, so they do not need to be torn off). Then the strawberries are placed on a rack so that the chocolate does not touch the bars. The lattice is placed in the refrigerator for at least half an hour, but only after the frosting has set. If you want to dip berries in both types of chocolate, you must wait until the first layer has set, then dip in the second layer.

Can I give strawberries to animals

Dogs and cats can be given strawberries, but only if the owner is confident in the quality of the berries - for example, if they were picked from their own plot. Large breeds can be given whole berries, but small dogs and cats should be cut into pieces.

Interesting facts about strawberries

Strawberries are berries with an interesting history. And it is a berry only in the domestic sense. In fact, the yellow seeds on it are nuts. That is, the red and juicy part is just a sprawling flower sprout, which can weigh up to 250 g (there were recorded such cases). On average, even a small strawberry has 200 nuts. Each year, the state of California alone harvests more than 1 billion tons of these fruits, and the strawberry's popularity is not going down.

Photo of strawberries