A new study published in the scientific journal Metabolism found that antioxidants in strawberries help lower bad cholesterol.

Antioxidants are the body’s internal defenders against free radicals known to contribute to conditions like heart disease, cancer and diabetes. According to a U.S. Department of Agriculture study, strawberries are the third-best among fresh fruits and vegetables for antioxidants.

The Metabolism study showed that the antioxidants in strawberries can improve and maintain the effectiveness of cholesterol-lowering diets, researchers said. High cholesterol is known to contribute to heart disease which is the leading cause of death for women and men.

"As more Americans embrace healthy eating trends to promote their own health and guard against illness, these types of findings are important," said Dr David J.A. Jenkins. "Diet plays a crucial role in lowering cholesterol and including antioxidant-rich strawberries in a healthy diet is a behavior change that’s simple and delicious to make."

Added to results of previous research, this study supports the importance of strawberries as a "super fruit," researchers said.

California strawberries, grown and available year-round, also are low in sugar, containing only eight grams per serving. One serving, equal to about eight strawberries, has only 50 calories.

Strawberries are an excellent source of vitamin C. One serving of strawberries provides more vitamin C than a whole orange.