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Strawberries are a delicious, nutritional-powerhouse food that is available all year long. They are high in fiber, rich in antioxidants and are fat-free and low in calories.Numerous studies have shown these scrumptious berries to reduce inflammation in the body, boost heart health and increase immunity. They contain more vitamin C than an orange! While sweet in taste, strawberries rate low on the glycemic index, so they do not spike your blood sugar levels.
Since beauty is both inner and outer, I am including two recipes for you to try—a stress-busting strawberry smoothie and a wonderful strawberry facial mask. Enjoy the beautiful, radiantly healthy results!
Strawberry Smoothie
You will need:
2 1/2 cups strawberries
1/2 cup strawberry nectar (or 1 cup strawberry yogurt)
1 pitted peach
1 cup low-fat plain yogurt
Blend in a food processor or blender until it is the consistency you like.
Strawberry Facial Mask
You will need:
4 or 5 very ripe, medium size strawberries
2 teaspoons heavy cream
1 teaspoon honey
Rinse the strawberries in lukewarm water, and pat them dry
In a small bowl, mash the fruit with a fork
Add the cream and honey, mixing well
Leave on for 20 minutes
Strawberries stimulate the skin, reduce swelling and redness and are a natural exfoliant, getting rid of the dead cells on the surface of the skin.
Honey is antibacterial and a great blemish fighter. It is also gentle on the skin.
The cream is moisturizing and feels great!
Why not try both of these recipes yourself?
Irene Helen Zundel is a freelance writer, educator and mother, and an expert in child development, home schooling and creative parenting and home making. Visit her online at http://www.irenehelenzundel.com