A new study conducted by researchers in Japan confirms scientific evidence regarding the effectiveness of a natural fruit that can cleanse arteries and blood vessels of cholesterol deposits, responsible for the onset of cardiovascular diseases.
This fruit is the strawberry, which helps reduce high blood pressure and bad cholesterol, according to the study published in the journal Food Science & Nutrition (FSN).
Specifically, scientists from Tokyo Medical University analyzed data from over 500 volunteers, men and women of various ages, who actively consumed strawberry juice for a year.
The experts found that among the volunteers who had prehypertension (slightly elevated blood pressure) before the experiment, the consumption of strawberry juice led to a reduction in both systolic and diastolic blood pressure (by 4 and 3 units, respectively).
Another study demonstrated that daily consumption of a large strawberry is associated with a 36% reduction in the risk of high blood pressure.
Strawberry juice has also proven to be an effective means of reducing LDL cholesterol levels, which is known as bad cholesterol and contributes to the formation of atherosclerotic plaques in blood vessels, clogging arteries and leading to atherosclerosis.
Researchers observed that unsweetened strawberry juice can be used as a natural means of preventing heart diseases. According to scientists, high blood pressure and the accumulation of bad cholesterol, which the fruit counteracts, are key factors in coronary diseases, myocardial infarction, and stroke.
Multiple Medical Benefits
The benefits of strawberry juice for the cardiovascular system are explained by the overall effect of the biologically active compounds contained in it. Strawberries are an excellent source of vitamin C, potassium, and vitamin K. With a content of 95% water and 5% carbohydrates and fiber, strawberries contain on average only 18 calories. They quickly provide a feeling of satiety and help with weight loss.
Among the benefits of consuming strawberries is the improvement of skin appearance. Strawberries are rich in lycopene, which helps prevent sunburn. Additionally, strawberries are high in potassium, an essential micronutrient for good blood circulation, as well as vitamin K.
These fruits reduce the risk of developing skin, prostate, cervical, oral, pharyngeal, esophageal, stomach, colon, rectal, and ovarian cancers, due to vitamins A and C. They also strengthen bones, with the help of vitamin K and calcium, excellent factors for fortifying and regenerating bone tissue; thus, lycopene is useful in preventing osteoporosis. Last but not least, strawberries improve vision through vitamin A.
Early Symptoms of High Cholesterol:
- chest pain, angina;
- heaviness, pain in the legs even after light physical activity;
- the appearance of blood clots during bleeding;
- yellow spots on the skin, especially around the eyes.
Symptoms in women are not different from those in men. More severe symptoms of high cholesterol appear when LDL levels are critical, leading to a pre-infarction state. The earlier the causes are discovered, the more effective the treatment will be.
