HUMAN HEALTH EFFECTS OF STRAWBERRY: A REVIEW OF CURRENT RESEARCH

Strawberries (Fragaria × ananassa Duch.) are a rich source of nutrients and bioactive phytochemicals. Apart from being a nutritious fruit, they are also rich in vitamin-C, folate, potassium, and dietary fibers and especially in polyphenols belonging to many different classes: anthocyanins, flavonols, flavan-3-ols, hydroxybenzoic acids, ellagic acid, ellagitannins, gallotannins and condensed tannins (proanthocyanidins). They also contain significant quantities of other beneficial molecules like lignans, flavanones, and sesquiterpenoids. These molecules display biological activity against many chronic and degenerative diseases. For instance, strawberry reduces the level of specific biomarkers associated with cardiovascular diseases and metabolic syndrome; it reduces inflammation, lowers LDL cholesterol, and reduces blood pressure. It also appears directly involved in the control of the body’s energy metabolism, and controls glycaemia. Moreover, strawberry has antitumor activity in esophageal, lung and colon cancers and reduces cognitive decline. It also displays antimicrobial action and may condition the gut microbiota. At present, many studies are being conducted to unravel the mode of action of strawberry bioactive compounds. This paper will thus briefly review the composition and biological activity of the phytochemicals found in strawberry and will discuss their potential impact on human health.