Juicy, seed-studded strawberries are having their season. Apart from their candylike flavor, there are several reasons to indulge in these red berries:

One cup of strawberries (that’s about 8 large berries) delivers 140 percent of your daily dose of vitamin C, the same as a cup of oranges. Vitamin C helps boost collagen production, which you lose as you age (collagen keeps your skin elastic). Plenty of vitamin C in your diet can help ward off that loss.

Strawberries have as much vitamin C as oranges. Vitamin C works with other nutrients to keep your immune system working properly.

Strawberries contain a mixture of phytochemicals — disease-fighting compounds. Many of these are thought to help lower cholesterol and keep blood vessels healthy.

One study found that the regular consumption of strawberries (1 cup a few times a week) lowered markers of inflammation that are linked to chronic disease.

Strawberries are low in calories (only 46 calories per cup) but really high in water, and they have a decent amount of fiber (3 grams per cup) — two things that help you feel full. Eat them for breakfast with a bit of yogurt and a sprinkling of granola for a diet-friendly, palate-pleasing start to the day.

Kerri-Ann is a registered dietitian and nutrition coach who writes on food and health trends. Find more of her work at kerriannjennings.com or follow her on Twitter @kerriannrd or Facebook.