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Strawberry Fruit Extract

Also known as: Strawberry fruit extract, Garden strawberry extract, Wild strawberry extract, Fragaria vesca extract, Fragaria × ananassa extract

Overview

Strawberry fruit extract is derived from the common garden strawberry (*Fragaria × ananassa*) or wild strawberry (*Fragaria vesca*), rich in bioactive compounds like polyphenols (especially anthocyanins), vitamin C, and organic acids. It is primarily utilized as a dietary supplement for its potent antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and potential cardiometabolic, cognitive, and anticancer benefits. Research on strawberry extract is moderately advanced, with several randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and systematic reviews supporting its antioxidant and cardiometabolic effects. While some areas require further high-quality studies, the existing evidence base includes well-designed human trials.

Benefits

Strawberry fruit extract offers several evidence-based benefits, primarily due to its rich antioxidant and anti-inflammatory profile. A 4-week randomized controlled trial involving 33 adults at cardiometabolic risk demonstrated that strawberry supplementation significantly increased serum antioxidant enzymes (SOD) and total antioxidant capacity, while decreasing the oxidative stress marker MDA. This study also reported improved endothelial function and insulin resistance in obese adults with elevated LDL cholesterol, indicating strong cardiometabolic benefits. Animal studies further support its antioxidant protection and enhanced endurance during high-intensity exercise by reducing plasma MDA. While less abundant, systematic review data on berry-based supplements suggest potential improvements in memory and learning in older adults with mild cognitive impairment, with strawberry-specific data being promising. Preclinical studies (in vitro and animal models) indicate potential anticancer effects through modulation of signaling pathways and induction of apoptosis in cancer cells, showing some tumor growth inhibition.

How it works

The primary mechanism of action for strawberry fruit extract involves its rich content of polyphenols, particularly anthocyanins, and vitamin C. These compounds act as potent antioxidants, effectively scavenging free radicals and reducing oxidative stress throughout the body. Its anti-inflammatory effects are mediated by the downregulation of pro-inflammatory cytokines and improvement of endothelial function, contributing to cardiovascular health. In the context of potential anticancer effects, strawberry extracts are believed to modulate specific transcription factors and induce apoptosis (programmed cell death) in malignant cells. The bioavailability of these bioactive compounds is influenced by the extract form, with absorbed and metabolized polyphenols contributing to systemic health benefits.

Side effects

Strawberry fruit extract is generally considered safe for consumption, with no significant adverse effects reported in human clinical trials. However, individuals with known allergies to strawberries or related fruits should exercise caution, as allergic reactions are possible. These reactions could include symptoms such as hives, swelling, or digestive upset. Currently, there are no documented significant drug interactions or contraindications associated with strawberry fruit extract based on the reviewed scientific literature. It is always advisable for individuals with pre-existing medical conditions or those taking prescription medications to consult a healthcare professional before incorporating any new supplement into their regimen, although specific warnings for strawberry extract are not prevalent.

Dosage

Effective dosages of strawberry fruit extract in human randomized controlled trials have ranged from amounts equivalent to daily dietary intake (approximately 1-2 cups of fresh strawberries) to standardized extract forms. These dosages were typically administered for durations of 4 weeks or longer to observe significant benefits. For instance, studies showing cardiometabolic and antioxidant improvements used doses achievable through regular consumption. Animal studies have utilized higher relative doses, such as 250-500 mg/kg body weight of ethanol extract, demonstrating dose-dependent antioxidant effects. While optimal human dosing requires further standardization for specific conditions, current evidence supports daily consumption of strawberries or an equivalent extract dose for general cardiometabolic and antioxidant health benefits. There are no established upper limits or safety thresholds, but adherence to recommended product dosages is advised.

FAQs

Is strawberry extract effective for heart health?

Yes, research indicates it can improve antioxidant status, endothelial function, and insulin resistance, benefiting individuals with cardiometabolic risk factors.

Can it improve cognitive function?

Promising but limited evidence suggests potential cognitive benefits, especially for memory, though more specific research on strawberry extract is needed.

Are there safety concerns?

Generally safe; however, individuals with strawberry allergies should be cautious. No significant drug interactions have been reported.

How long before benefits appear?

Some antioxidant and metabolic improvements have been observed within 4 weeks of consistent supplementation in human studies.

Research Sources

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8614674/ – This randomized controlled trial found that strawberry supplementation significantly increased antioxidant enzymes and total antioxidant capacity, while decreasing oxidative stress markers in adults with cardiometabolic risk. It also showed improvements in endothelial function and insulin resistance, supporting its cardiometabolic benefits.
https://aassjournal.com/article-1-1341-en.pdf – An animal study demonstrating that strawberry ethanol extract reduced plasma malondialdehyde (MDA), an oxidative stress marker, and prolonged exhaustion time during high-intensity exercise. This suggests antioxidant protection and enhanced endurance properties of the extract.
https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-022-07302-4 – A systematic review of randomized controlled trials on berry supplements, indicating that they can improve memory and learning in older adults with cognitive complaints. While mostly focused on blueberry, it suggests a broader benefit for berry fruits, including strawberry, on cognitive function.
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10059084/ – This review highlights preclinical evidence (in vitro and animal studies) suggesting that strawberry extracts possess antitumor effects. These effects are mediated by modulating signaling pathways and inducing apoptosis in cancer cells, indicating potential as an anticancer agent.
https://pubs.rsc.org/en/content/articlehtml/2025/fo/d5fo01888a – An evidence-based review summarizing the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of strawberries. It emphasizes their potential role in preventing metabolic and cardiovascular diseases, while also noting the need for more large-scale human trials to solidify these findings.