Study unveils miracle benefit of the UK’s most popular fruit
If you’ve ever wondered which fruit fares best among your countrymen, one of YouGov’s myriad important surveys has already found the answer.
You might imagine it’s the humble banana, but at 83% popularity it only just made it onto the podium in third place.
Bananas did, however, top out the ‘fame’ rating at 100% alongside blueberries and kiwis, but it seems 17% of those surveyed would rather skip the fibrous, yellow, pyjama-clad fruits.
Red grapes took second at 84%, with the standout favourite – by opinion rather than sales – is the strawberry at 90% popularity.
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Shortcake elevating, Wimbledon-defining strawberries might be popular for their bright colour, sweet but slightly tangy flavour, and satisfying bite, but their lesser-known health benefits are worth shouting about too.
Of course, as a fruit, it goes without saying that they’re worth eating. Along with offering helpful dietary fibre, fruits are rich in vitamins, minerals and antioxidants that can help your body to stay in tune.
Oranges are packed with vitamin C, bananas are an excellent source of potassium, blueberries have a protective effect against type 2 diabetes, obesity and certain types of cancer, and avocados offer a solid dose of healthy fats.
According to a study from the University of Cincinnati, strawberries pack an extra punch over their fruity brethren that could see you age more healthily if you eat them regularly.
The study found that a daily portion of strawberries across a 12 week trial saw improvements to participants’ general mood, as well as a decline in memory and mental health-related issues.
Researchers said they hoped these effects might be of benefit to cutting dementia risk, with one in 11 people over 65 suffering from the disease’s effects in the UK.
"Dementia is a general term that includes many different diseases, all without remedies." said Professor Robert Krikorian from the University of Cincinnati.
“It is not clear when or if effective therapy will be available; prevention and mitigation through dietary and lifestyle choices is currently the best approach we have.”
Professor Krikorian continued: “Our findings can likely be attributed to the anti-inflammatory actions of the anthocyanins found in strawberries.
“We wanted to work with a middle-aged, overweight population as dementia is a condition that is believed to develop over a period of decades.
“Furthermore, inflammation is likely a contributing factor related to metabolic disorders such as obesity, pre-diabetes and type 2 diabetes.”
On top of that, a portion of strawberries will give you 100% of your recommended daily vitamin C intake, along with a shot of vitamin B9 and vitamin K.
If you needed any further excuses to wolf down some strawberries, you’re welcome.
Rachael Davis