A sign of summer, strawberries come into the peak of their season in the mid-year months. Nearly 80 percent of the strawberries grown in the U.S. are produced in California, though strawberries are grown in nearly every state of the country. From breakfast to snacks and treats, strawberries are a versatile fruit packed with vitamins and important nutrients. Large strawberries are ideal for slicing, cooking or serving whole; understand the nutrient content they bring to your recipes before adding them.
Calories and Fat
A large strawberry is close to 1.5 inches in diameter. Each large berry contains 6 calories and less than half a gram of fat. The low fat and calorie content make strawberries an ideal snack. It would take up to 2 cups of berries to reach 100 calories. The USDA recommends limiting your fat intake to no more than 35 percent of your daily calorie intake, making strawberries an ideal selection for nutritional benefit with very limited fat.
Carbohydrates, Fiber and Sugar
Each large berry contains 1.4 g of carbohydrates. Sugar accounts for 1 g of the carbohydrate content, with the remainder contributed by dietary fiber. Strawberries digest quickly, with two-thirds of their carbohydrates from simple sugar. Pair the berries with yogurt, cottage cheese or a similar protein to slow the absorption of sugar, creating a gradual, consistent blood sugar impact.
Cholesterol and Sodium
Strawberries are free of cholesterol and sodium, both of which contribute to heart disease and hypertension. Eat the strawberries fresh or cooked without any added oils, fats or salt for the best nutritional benefit. The USDA's recommended daily intake of sodium is 2,300 mg or less for healthy individuals and 1,500 mg or less for low-sodium diets.
Other Nutrients
Strawberries are rich in vitamin C, with 10 mg in each large berry. Vitamin C helps your body absorb iron from the foods you eat and encourages new muscle and blood vessel growth. Research is still underway to determine the benefits of vitamin C on the common cold, but the vitamin is commonly touted for its immune system benefits. Each berry also contains 3 mg of calcium, which is essential for strong, healthy bones.
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