Crafted from juicy strawberries, milk, ice cream, and typically a range of sweeteners, a strawberry milkshake is a tasty and indulgent beverage. Despite having a somewhat high sugar content, the drink does boast several health benefits as it’s loaded with vital nutrients and minerals, such as calcium, potassium, and vitamin C. As a result, some of the most potent health benefits of strawberry milkshakes include strengthening bones and boosting immunity.
Despite the aforementioned health benefits, it’s recommended to consume strawberry milkshakes in moderate doses. This is because, as mentioned above, it is typically composed of high levels of sugar owing to the use of ingredients such as ice cream and artificial sweeteners. These ingredients could affect cholesterol levels as well as drive up weight if taken in excessive quantities. Look for low-sugar and low-fat strawberry milkshake recipes to steer clear of these health issues.
Take a look at some science-backed health benefits of drinking strawberry milkshakes.
Boosts Energy
Strawberry milkshake is rich in carbohydrates, with a small serving of the milkshake believed to hold about 50 grams of carbs. According to a 1994 article entitled “Carbohydrates as a Source of Energy” published in The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, the body derives its primary reserves of energy by ingesting carbs. Thus, a strawberry milkshake is an effective energy booster as it supplies the body with a high level of carbs.
Strengthens Bones
As the name indicates, the main ingredients of a strawberry milkshake are strawberries and milk. These food items are abundant in minerals, such as calcium and potassium, both of which contribute to the healthy maintenance of bones. In this way, the consumption of strawberry milkshakes enables the quick repair of bones and muscles; it also helps shield the body against bone-related ailments, such as fractures and osteoporosis.
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Limits Sodium Intake
A small serving of strawberry milkshake usually holds about 100–150 grams of sodium, making the beverage low in sodium levels. According to the “Salt and Sodium” article published in the Nutrition Source of the Harvard School of Public Health, it’s critical to curb one’s sodium intake as high-sodium foods are typically associated with conditions like high blood pressure and heart disease. Therefore, being low in sodium, strawberry milkshakes could potentially help guard against these chronic conditions.
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Fortifies Immunity
Strawberries are a powerful source of vitamin C, an antioxidant that helps combat cancer-causing free radicals and reduces oxidative stress on cells. Similarly, an article entitled “Treatment with supplementary arginine, vitamin C and zinc in patients with pressure ulcers: A randomised controlled trial” published in the journal Clinical Nutrition states that vitamin C could help flesh wounds heal quicker. So, strawberry milkshakes help build up the body’s resistance to disease and stimulate quick healing.
Aids Digestion
An average helping of strawberry milkshake typically comprises about 15% dietary fibre, making the drink a fibre-rich concoction. Dietary fibre offers numerous benefits, including helping stimulate the good bacteria present in the gut. These bacteria, in turn, help deal with digestion-related ailments such as acidity, constipation, and indigestion. Ensure to use a strawberry milkshake powder with high levels of fibre to reap this benefit of the drink.
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Enhances Skin
Strawberries are teeming with a substance known as salicylic acid that helps treat skin-related issues, including hyperpigmentation, blemishes, and dark spots. Additionally, the antioxidant vitamin D as well as calcium present in milk have an anti-ageing effect on the skin, helping it look young and healthy. Strawberry milkshake combines the benefits of salicylic acid with vitamin D and calcium into a single delectable drink, helping to protect and enhance skin.