Raspberry Benefits

May Reduce Disease Risk

Antioxidants are plant compounds that help your cells fight and recover from oxidative stress. This stress is linked to higher risk of cancer, diabetes, heart disease and other illnesses. They are rich in vitamin C, quercetin and ellagic acid. Animal studies have suggested that raspberries have anti-inflammatory and antioxidative effect which may help reduce the risk of chronic diseases, such as heart disease, diabetes, obesity and cancer. A study on mice found that the ellagic acid within raspberries may prevent oxidative damage and repair damaged DNA.

May Help Fight Cancer

High levels of antioxidants in raspberries may protect against cancer. One test-tube study showed that red raspberry extract killed stomach, colon and breast cancer cells.  Another test-tube study showed H-6, an antioxidant in red raspberries led to ovarian cancer cell death. A study on mice revealed the prevention of liver cancer growth with a decrease in tumor development with larger doses of raspberry extract.

May Improve Arthritis

The anti-inflammatory properties in raspberries may reduce symptoms of arthritis. A study on rats given red raspberry extract had a lower risk of arthritis and those that did experience arthritis had less severe symptoms. Another study on rats revealed less swelling and joint destruction. It is suggested that raspberries protect against arthritis by blocking COX-2. COX-2 is an enzyme which causes inflammation and pain.

May Combat Aging

It is suggested that antioxidants increased various animal models lifespans and showed anti-aging effects in humans.