Analyzing the nutritional value of a strawberry may provide some surprises. Two of the berry's most abundant nutrients are vitamin C and manganese. Strawberries are a good source of iodine, certain B-complex nutrients, and vitamin K. Eating this fruit also provides a person with a source of omega 3 fatty acids.
Strawberries contain a lot of sugar, but this fact does not overshadow the wide range of benefits. A strawberry is a low-calorie and low-fat food. The berries are also cholesterol free and contain only minimal amounts of sodium. While they may not be the best sources, strawberries provide individuals with small doses of both calcium and iron.
Most people associate vitamin C with citrus fruits. One of the surprising facts about the nutritional value of a strawberry is that it is packed with vitamin C. It is estimated that 1 cup of these berries can provide significantly more than the daily required amount of this nutrient. Strawberries are therefore considered an excellent source for obtaining this vitamin. One cup of these berries also provides a significant amount of dietary fiber.
Manganese is an essential trace mineral that naturally occurs in rocks and in some foods. The body needs the mineral for a number of reasons, including skeletal development and the proper conversion of food to energy. When considering the nutritional value of a strawberry, manganese should not be overlooked because it is one of the fruit's most prevalent nutrients.
There are a group of nutrients that are essential to the body, and although they have unique structures and roles in the body's welfare, they are classified together and referred to a the B-complex. Studies of the nutritional value of a strawberry reveal that this fruit is a good source of several nutrients in this category. This includes vitamin B2, also known as riboflavin, vitamin B6, known as pyridoxine, and vitamin B5, commonly called pantothenic acid. Strawberries also contain notable amounts of vitamin K, which the body needs for blood clotting to be possible.
Another characteristic of strawberries that may surprise some people is the presence of omega 3 fatty acids. Maintaining proper levels of these fatty acids in the body is believed to be necessary to help prevent problems such as poor memory and poor circulation. Iodine is a nutrient that is needed to ensure the proper production of hormones, and strawberries are also a great source of this element.