Prior to a few weeks ago, I had yet to meet anyone who doesn't like strawberries. (Tom Brady famously hates them, and chatting to him broke my streak.) They are one of the most popular fruits, thanks in part to their versatility, nutritional benefits, and year-long availability—not to mention: They taste damn good.
According to the Cleveland Clinic, they also pack in a lot of nutrition in relatively few calories. They are known to boost brain function, help manage blood sugar, strengthen the immune system, reduce inflammation, and improve heart health—an all-around powerhouse fruit! Nutritionist Lauren Manaker, MS, RDN, tells us that our favorite red berry is jam-packed with vitamin C, antioxidants, and fiber, too. But that doesn't mean you can't overdo it if you eat too many.
Yes, that means there is such a thing as too many strawberries. So, before you decide to down an entire carton in a single sitting, factor in the ways in which excess strawberries could cause some harm.
A serving size of strawberries is roughly one cup (8-10 medium-sized strawberries), which provides a great balance without overloading your system, explains Manaker. She notes that eating two to three servings a day is generally fine for most people, but with any more than that, you might see some adverse side effects.
"Overeating strawberries could lead to digestive discomfort, like bloating or diarrhea, due to their fiber content," Manaker explains. In addition, strawberries are naturally acidic, so eating too many has the potential to irritate your stomach or even cause acid reflux.
Manaker tells us that that's not all you have to be on the lookout for when it comes to strawberries." Although strawberries are relatively low in sugar compared to other fruits, eating large quantities could still impact blood sugar levels, especially for people with diabetes," she says.
"Some people are sensitive to strawberries and may experience mild allergic symptoms like itching or swelling, which could worsen with overconsumption," Manaker continues. Lastly, consuming too much of one food can prevent you from absorbing important nutrients you'd get from other food sources. There's no hard and fast rule when it comes to strawberry consumption, but as with everything, moderation is key. As Manaker puts it, "Strawberries are a wonderful addition to your diet, but variety is the spice of life!"
