Healthy Food of the week:  Strawberries 

The strawberry is a delicious, bright red fruit produced on a low-lying plant which can be grown in the ground or in container. In Florida strawberries are planted in October or early November and are full-sized and perfect for eating this time of the year. The strawberries we see right now in the grocery store or produce market are most likely Florida-grown, and just at their peak of sweetness and juiciness.

If you want to try to grow your own strawberries, plant them next autumn and choose “short day” varieties with names such as Festival, Treasure and Chandler. The plants need moist, well-drained soil and plenty of sunlight. The watering needs of the strawberry plant are important when the fruit is forming, as the plant first develops small white flowers until the fruit is red and ripe. The County Cooperative Extension office is a good source of information pertaining to growing strawberries.

Strawberries are low in calories and contain vitamin A, vitamin E, and are an excellent source of vitamin C which helps the body fight infections and illness.

Choose strawberries with a shiny red color, green caps and a sweet smell. To store strawberries place them unwashed in the refrigerator and before eating use cool water to gently wash them leaving the green caps attached. If looking for frozen strawberries, select ones with no sugar added.

Strawberries are a very versatile fruit that can be eaten any time of the day. Sliced strawberries at breakfast are great added to cereal or yogurt and as a topping for pancakes or waffles. Add strawberries to a smoothie or a spinach salad, or eat as a snack or dessert.

March is the month to enjoy the peak of strawberry season and to reap the health benefits of this beautiful, health-enhancing fruit.

Remember: Make 5-2-1-0 your goal every day.

5 - Fruits and vegetables a day (including strawberries) 2 - Only 2 hours or less of screen time a day (TV, computers, video games) 1 - One hour of physical activity a day 0 - Sugar-sweetened drinks (drink more water and non-fat milk)

References:
"Gardening in a Minute"
Harvest of the Month