The Sweetest Swap I’ve Made for My Skin and Gut Health
If you’re anything like me, mornings used to feel like a mad dash to grab something quick, maybe finish your coffee while standing, and hope you remember to take your vitamins before lunch. Wellness felt like another thing on the to-do list…until I started looking at it differently.
These days, I’m a big believer in keeping things simple, but intentional. That shift didn’t happen overnight. It started with one small swap: adding strawberries and collagen to my morning smoothie.
I know, I know. Strawberries might not sound like a groundbreaking wellness move. But sometimes, the most powerful changes are the ones that feel easy to stick with. When I say strawberries have become a daily staple, it’s because they work for me; and I think they might work for you, too.
Why Strawberries?
Strawberries are in season right now, which means they’re easy to find, affordable, and bursting with flavor. But here’s what made me really fall in love with them: they’re packed with benefits that align perfectly with the two things I focus on most - gut health and skin support.
Let’s break it down…
Skin-Supporting Benefits
Vitamin C for the win
One of the best things about strawberries? They're rich in vitamin C, which your body needs to produce collagen. Collagen is what helps keep your skin firm, plump, and supported. Basically everything you want in your 40s and beyond. I don’t rely on trendy skincare fads. I’m more interested in what supports my body from the inside out. And this sweet little fruit fits the bill.
Ellagic acid = a quiet hero
Strawberries also contain ellagic acid, which may help protect skin from environmental stress and even slow collagen breakdown. In plain speak: it’s a gentle way to support your skin’s natural repair process.
Gut-Loving Benefits
Fiber to support digestion
If you’ve been following my journey, you know gut health is my heartbeat. Strawberries offer a natural source of fiber, which can help support digestion and keep things running smoothly. No gimmicks, no fancy powders. Just real food that works with your body.
Low glycemic, naturally sweet
Strawberries give you that sweet taste without the blood sugar crash. They’re a great option if you’re trying to curb sugar cravings or balance your energy throughout the day. I used to think wellness meant giving things up. Now I know it’s more about choosing foods that give me energy, not take it away.
Hydrating without trying
Strawberries are over 90% water. That means they help with hydration, which supports digestion, skin, and energy. It’s an easy win, especially during the summer months when your body needs a little extra water love.
My Morning Routine (No Perfection Required)
Every morning, I toss strawberries into my smoothie. I also add my daily collagen because collagen + vitamin C? That’s a team I can get behind. It takes maybe 2 minutes. I don’t overthink it. I don’t make it fancy. It’s just a moment where I choose to support myself, and that’s enough.
I’ve learned that the simpler I make wellness, the more consistent I am. And honestly, that consistency has made a huge difference in how I feel.
A Gentle Reminder
I didn’t overhaul my life in one day. I didn’t wake up after surviving two sudden cardiac arrests and suddenly become a green-juice girl who lives at the farmer’s market. I’m still me. I just started paying closer attention to what I put in my body, how I care for my gut, and how I support my energy.
And one of the biggest lessons I’ve learned? You don’t have to “do it all” to start feeling better. You just have to start.
If strawberries aren’t your thing, that’s okay. But if you’re looking for a place to begin, a small, doable step toward better skin, better digestion, and better energy, this one’s a great place to start.
Let’s Recap: Strawberry Benefits at a Glance
Vitamin C – helps with collagen production + skin repair
Fiber – supports digestion + gut balance
Hydrating – over 90% water
Antioxidants – protect and support skin + energy
Low glycemic – sweet without the sugar spike
Want More Simple Swaps?
I created a free guide with a few of my favorite gut-supporting swaps. Real changes I’ve made that are easy to stick with and actually make a difference.
If you’ve been wanting to feel better but have no idea where to start, this guide is a great first step.
You don’t need to change everything to change how you feel.
You just need a place to start.
Today, it might look like a handful of strawberries.
Tomorrow, maybe a smoothie.
Next week, who knows?
But you’ve got this. One small step at a time. 💚
