Beautiful bright red raspberries are not only delicious but also packed with vitamins and minerals that are essential to our heath.
- Raspberries are good for the brain. Some studies have shown that intake of flavonoids in berries can help memory improvement as well as decreasing the delay in cognitive ability related to aging.
- Raspberries are good for the heart. Intake of flavonoids-rich foods like raspberries can lower the risk of cardiovascular disease by preventing platelet buildup and reducing blood pressure via anti-inflammatory mechanisms. Also potassium in raspberries is an important component of cell and body fluids that helps controlling heart rate and blood pressure.
- Raspberries can lower the risk of cancer. Raspberries contain powerful antioxidants that work against free radicals. The polyphenols that protect against heart disease also help ward off or slow cancer.
- Raspberries can prevent diabetes. The high content of fiber in raspberries helps keep blood sugar stable.
5. Raspberries are good for digestion. The fiber and water content in raspberries help to prevent constipation and maintain healthy digestive tract. Also dietary fiber plays a role in regulating the immune system and inflammation, consequently decreasing the risk of cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, cancer, and obesity. Fiber intake can also help lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels.
6. Raspberries are good for the eyes. High content of vitamin C in raspberries can help keep eyes healthy by providing protection against UV light damage. Raspberries also contain the antioxidant zeaxanthin, which filers out harmful blue light rays and protects eyes.
7. Raspberries are nutritional overall. One cup of raspberries can provide 54 %of your vitamin C needs, 12 % of vitamin K, 6 % of folate, 5 % of vitamin E, iron, and potassium, and 41 % of manganese as well as lesser amounts of thiamin, riboflavin, niacin, pantothenic acid, vitamin B-6, calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, zinc, and copper.
As some reports say that raspberries contain high levels of pesticide residue, I suggest you to buy organic raspberries to lower the risk of exposure to pesticide. Also, raspberries perish early and before storing them in the fridge, sort out the ones that are damaged or bruised so that they don’t spoil others. Raspberries are great especially on top of ice cream, yogurt, or in your favorite smoothies. What is your favorite way to eat raspberries?