Raspberries may be known as nature’s candy, but there are immense health benefits to consuming them. A cup of raspberries contains 64 calories, 8 grams of fiber, 54 percent of the RDA for vitamin C, and 41 percent of the RDA for manganese among many other nutrients. The “super power” of raspberries is their antioxidant content. Raspberries are full of multiple varieties of antioxidants that benefit the heart, brain, eyes, GI tract and decrease the risk for some cancers.
Studies have shown a correlation between flavonoid style antioxidants and memory improvement and delayed mental aging. Raspberries have been proven to reduce inflammation and prevent plaque buildup and lower blood pressure. The antioxidants found in raspberries have been shown to decrease free radical damage and inhibit tumor growth. These properties potentially prevent certain cancers such as endometrial, colon and prostate. The fiber content of raspberries prevents constipation and promotes a healthy GI tract, reducing risk of chronic diseases like diabetes and cardiovascular disease. Raspberries have two compounds that help protect the eyes: Vitamin C to protect the eye from UV ray damage and zeaxanthin which filters the harmful blue light rays; together they work to prevent macular degeneration.
Resource:
Megan Ware, RDN, LD