While recently picked strawberries can be refreshing, you may find dried strawberries a more convenient snack, as they travel well and can stay edible for a long period of time without the need for refrigeration. Because dried strawberries contain less water than fresh strawberries, they are a more calorie-dense food source, so the dried berries may not be an ideal food for dieting.
Calories
Dried strawberries are relatively calorie dense, with 150 calories per 1/3-cup serving. This makes up about 7.5 percent of the daily suggested calorie intake of 2,000 and is much more than the amount in 1/3-cup of fresh strawberries, 26 calories. Dieters might want to note that it would take 41 minutes of weightlifting or 15 minutes of jogging to burn the calories in 1/3 cup of dried strawberries.
Fat
Dried strawberries do not contain any fat, so they can be a good choice for a low-fat diet. Dietary fat provides satiety, ensures proper growth and development and helps absorb nutrients, so it is vital to consume dietary fat.
Carbohydrates
Dried strawberries, as with other types of fruit, are rich in carbohydrates. Each 1/3-cup serving of dried strawberries provides 36 g of carbohydrates. Most of these carbohydrates -- 32 g -- come from sugar. Sugar is beneficial for providing quick energy, but it can also promote tooth decay.
Fiber
Dried strawberries provide a moderate amount of fiber, 4 g per 1/3-cup serving. You need dietary fiber for optimal health because it helps manage your cholesterol and blood sugar levels, keeps your digestive system healthy and promotes satiety. Men should consume 38 g of fiber daily, while women should consume 25 g.
Protein
Dried strawberries are low in protein, with just 1 g in each 1/3-cup serving. Protein is a vital nutrient your body needs to build and maintain tissues and cells. The Institute of Medicine recommends eating at least .8 g protein per kilogram of your body weight each day.
Vitamins and Minerals
Dried strawberries provide some vitamins and minerals; they are particularly rich in vitamin C, with 40 percent of the daily recommended intake in each 1/3-cup serving. Dried strawberries also contain 4 percent of the daily suggested intake for iron and calcium.
References
- MyFitnessPal: Calories in Whole Foods Dried Strawberries
- LIVESTRONG.COM MyPlate: Calories in Strawberries
- MayoClinic.com; Exercise for Weight Loss: Calories Burned in 1 Hour; December 2009
- MedlinePlus; Dietary Fats; August 2011
- MayoClinic.com; Dietary Fiber: Essential For a Healthy Diet; November 2009
- Harvard School of Public Health Nutrition Source; Protein - Your Nutrition Questions Answered
Member Comments