Effect of Freeze-Dried Strawberry Powder on Lipid Profile and Markers of Oxidative Stress in Women with Metabolic Syndrome

Abstract

Oxidative stress is linked to metabolic and cardiovascular diseases. Strawberries contain nutrients and phytochemicals that possess high antioxidant capacity and strawberry intake has been shown to reduce the risk of CVD mortality in women. In this feeding study, the hypothesis that freeze-dried strawberry powder will reduce oxidative stress and improve the lipid profile was examined. Females (n=16) with metabolic syndrome were given 50 g of freeze-dried strawberry powder each day for four weeks. The freeze-dried strawberry powder was prepared by blending it into a drink with water, vanilla extract, and Splenda®. Women consumed two cups of the drink daily, each cup containing 25 grams of the strawberry powder. Fasting blood draws, anthropometrics, and blood pressure were collected at screen and 4 weeks of the study for analysis.