Strawberry as a health promoter: an evidence-based review. Where are we 10 years later?

Abstract

Strawberries are commonly consumed berries in the Mediterranean area. The fruits present a high concentration of micronutrients and bioactive compounds that confer a plethora of biological activities, including antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. This review discusses and updates the recent results of in vivo studies, in animals and humans, focusing on the impact that strawberry consumption has on many common human diseases, such as obesity, cancer, cardiovascular diseases and metabolic disorders; particular attention has been given to the biological effects and molecular mechanisms involved in the beneficial effects exerted by this berry. Evidence suggests these fruits can contribute to preventing or slowing down the progression of many diseases, even though further research is necessary to confirm their long-term effectiveness, to improve patients’ quality of life or prognosis.