Hello! What says summer more than strawberries?
Food Focus: Strawberries
From BBC Good Food
Strawberries are an excellent source of vitamins C and K as well as providing a good dose of fibre, folic acid, manganese and potassium. They also contain significant amounts of phytonutrients and flavanoids which makes strawberries bright red. They have been used throughout history in a medicinal context to help with digestive ailments, teeth whitening and skin irritations. Their fibre and fructose content may help regulate blood sugar levels by slowing digestion and the fibre is thought to have a satiating effect. Leaves can be eaten raw, cooked or used to make tea.
Did you know?
The strawberry season in the UK is short and runs from the end of May through July. To achieve maximum yields during this short season, farmers need to protect emerging berries from the muddy soil. Traditionally, this was done by spreading a layer of straw around each new plant - hence the name strawberry.
Breakfast Smoothie from BBC Good Food
1 small ripe banana
about 140g strawberries
apple juice or water
Method
Slice the banana into your blender or food processor and add the berries of your choice. Whizz until smooth. With the blades whirring, pour in juice or water to make the consistency you like. Toss a few extra fruits on top, drizzle with honey and serve.
Giving it a twist
Use melon or a slightly over-ripe mango instead of the banana. Or add a pot of low-fat natural yogurt to make an extra-creamy smoothie.
Top Tip for Health & Quote of the Week
These are combined this week thanks to this quote from artist David Hockney. 'What is stress? Stress is worrying about something in the future. Art is now.'
Art may not be your thing but this applies to any activity you can get completely absorbed in. It could be knitting or sewing, doing puzzles, cooking, reading, watching a favourite film – anything which you really enjoy can take your thoughts away from everything else. When we’re focussed on what we’re doing, we’re in the moment and the future disappears for a while. And this is great for our mental health, particularly when we’re stressed or anxious.
So the tip is to remember to do the things which we can become absorbed in. It gives our mind a break and helps to relax the body.