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Strawberries Strawberries are the fifth most consumed fresh fruit in the United States, and consumption more than doubled in the past decade, according to experts. Strawberry's antioxidants come in the form of both long-established vitamins and newly defined plant chemicals. Berries are particularly well endowed with a series of compounds called anthocyanins--the source of the berries' blue, purple and red pigments. . Scientists at Cornell University carried out a sophisticated analysis of the impact of the antioxidants in strawberries, bananas, and oranges on oxidative stress and damage.    The antioxidants in strawberries reduced oxidative damage in a dose-dependent manner, and at the highest concentration tested (2,000 micrograms per milliter), largely prevented oxidative damage. Strawberry phenolics also helped reduce damage to the cell membranes in the brain, which are known to be exceptionally sensitive to oxidative stress. Strawberries contain a chemical compound called phenols. Anthocyanin, a particular phenol abundantly found in strawberries, lends the rich red color to the fruit. Anti-Cancer The combination of antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agents found in strawberries is well-known to fight against the onset of many different forms of cancer. Thanks to the vitamin C, folate, and the flavonoids quercetin and kaempferol that they also contain, strawberries are a delicious defense against potentially cancerous cells. One cup of strawberries contains 21% of manganese, an essential nutrient that acts as a powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agent. By increasing the levels of superoxide dismutase (SOD), the enzyme responsible for protecting mitochonrdria exposed to oxygen, manganese not only helps to fight the battle against free radicals and oxidative stress, but also lessens cellular inflammation -- another cause of numerous cardiovascular diseases. Bone Health Manganese is also great for the bones, helping in bone building and maintaining proper bone structure. The potassium, vitamin K, and magnesium in strawberries are also important for bone health Healthy Eyes The Archives of Opthalmology recently published a study in which three or more servings of strawberries (and other fruits) per day can decrease the possibility of contracting age-related macular degeneration by over one-third. The Vigorous Vitamin C One cup of strawberries contains an incredible 136% of the RDA of vitamin C, an effective antioxidant that can help lower blood pressure, ensure a healthy immune system, and ward off the development of age-related ocular diseases, such as cataracts and macular degeneration. In other words, High levels of antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Rich in vitamin C, with well documented cardio-vascular benefits. The fibre in strawberries is known to reduce blood sugar levels, so they are a great source of natural sweetness for diabetics. Anti-cancer benefits associated with their strong antioxidant content. Strawberries have been linked to increased cognitive function (and are therefore considered a desirable fruit to combat the ill effects of aging). The anti-inflammatory properties are connected to reduced risk of conditions including inflamed bowel problems and many arthritic problems. Good source of magnesium, potassium, nitrate and folate.