Raspberries are the smaller, sharper, sassier cousins of strawberries. Like strawberries, raspberries are a summer fruit, although their season is much shorter. Also like strawberries, raspberries have some great health benefits, so enjoy them as often as you like.
Protects against cancer
Raspberries are high in ellagic acid, which prevents the growth of cancer cells, and prevents some cancers, as well as inhibiting the growth of tumours. They are also high in powerful antioxidants such as vitamin C. gallic acid and quercetin. The great thing about raspberries is that, unlike many fruits, their health properties are not affected by freezing, apart from a reduction in their already high levels of vitamin C, so you can enjoy them all year round and know you're still reaping the health benefits.
Fat burning properties
Raspberries are full of fibre, which helps you stay fuller for longer. They are also a good source of manganese, which is known to boost the metabolism. This in turn helps to burn off fat, so raspberries are a great weight loss food.
Anti-aging properties
The oil in raspberry seeds has a natural sun protection factor of 25 - 30, and the vitamin E and Omega 3 fatty acids in the oil helps skin to look plumper and younger. Make a face mask from 2 cups of raspberries, a tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil and 1 cup of yogurt. Whizz in a blender, apply to the skin and leave for 15 minutes. The great thing about this face mask is, it's edible, so if it runs down your face, just lick it off! This will help remedy the discolouration of age spots, and plump out the skin.
Promotes cell renewal and repair
Raspberries contain 50% more anti-oxidants than strawberries, and ten times more than tomatoes, both of which are significantly high in anti-oxidants. This prevents damage to cells and DNA, making for a healthy body. The manganese and vitamin C content in raspberries is useful in preventing tissue damage.
Anti-inflammatory and anti-allergenic
Like strawberries, raspberries have anti-inflammatory properties which can help the pain of arthritis and gout. In addition, the quercetin in raspberries inhibits the production of histamines in the body, so allergic reactions are minimised or prevented. Hay fever sufferers could find some relief from their condition if they tuck into raspberried during the summer.
Good for eye health
Three servings of raspberries or other fruits every day can protect against age related macular degeneration (AMD), the single biggest cause of blindness in the over 50s. It's the powerful anti-oxidants that help, but surprisingly, anti-oxidants from vegetables do not offer the same protection.
Raspberries are a delicious fruit, low in fat and calories but high in fibre and nutrients. Enjoy raspberries whenever you fancy them, and reap their amazing health benefits.