Nutritional science on strawberries: This comes from the American Institute for Cancer Research:
This content was last updated on April 11, 2021
The Cancer Research
The ever-growing body of scientific research on strawberries is focused on the potential for its compounds to influence the genes that govern cancer development. Earlier studies focused on how the fruit supports our antioxidant defenses.
Interpreting the data
After a systematic review of the global scientific literature, AICR/WCRF analyzed how foods and their nutrients affect the risk of developing cancer.
“Convincing” or “probable” evidence means there is strong research showing a causal relationship to cancer—either decreasing or increasing the risk. The research must include quality human studies that meet specific criteria and biological explanations for the findings.
A convincing or probable judgement is strong enough to justify recommendations.
- There is probable evidence that foods with dietary fiber DECREASE the risk of:
- Colorectal cancer
- Weight gain, overweight and obesity*
*This is important, because there is strong evidence that excess body fat increases the risk of at least 12 different cancers.
- There is probable evidence that non-starchy vegetables and fruit combined DECREASE the risk of:
- Aerodigestive cancers overall (such as mouth, pharynx and larynx; esophageal; lung; stomach and colorectal cancers)
“Limited suggestive” evidence means results are generally consistent in overall conclusions, but it’s rarely strong enough to justify recommendations to reduce risk of cancer.
- Limited evidence suggests that fruit may DECREASE the risk of:
- Lung cancer (in people who smoke or used to smoke tobacco) and squamous cell esophageal cancer
- Limited evidence suggests that non-starchy vegetables and fruit combined may DECREASE the risk of:
- Bladder cancer
- Limited evidence suggests that foods containing vitamin C may DECREASE the risk of:
- Lung cancer (in people who smoke) and colon cancer
Source: AICR/WCRF. Diet, Nutrition, Physical Activity and Cancer: A Global Perspective, 2018.
What's in Strawberries that matters:
- Vitamin C
- Dietary Fiber
- Anthocyanins
- Phenolic acids (including ellagic acid)
- Stilbenes (mainly resveratrol)
- Flavan-3-ols
- Tannins (proanthocyanidins and ellagitannins)
Preparation Quick Tip:
Have you been experimenting with overnight oats? Frozen strawberries are a perfect ingredient for this quick and healthy option for breakfasts and snacks. No need to thaw them before adding to the mixture.
Strawberries inhibit inflammation and decrease the growth of several types of cancer cells, suggesting they play a valuable role in cancer prevention.
www.aicr.org
Other foods that fight cancer: