Natural
Weight-Loss Foods: Raspberries
Raspberries are low in
calories and high in fiber, a vital one-two punch in the fight against fat.
This fragile, exquisite, and expensive berry is actually a member of the rose
family. But there is nothing delicate about the low-calorie fiber you get from
this tiny fruit.
Health Benefits
It's wonderful that a food that tastes so good is so good for you. They are low
in fat and calories and have 2 grams of fiber per half cup. Some of the fiber
is insoluble, so it helps keep you regular. But much of it is found as pectin,
a soluble fiber known to help lower blood cholesterol.
Besides being a good
source of vitamin C (an antioxidant beneficial in the fight against cancer),
raspberries contain a phytochemical, ellagic acid, believed to have additional
anticancer properties.
These melt-in-your-mouth
berries also contain anthocyanins, which possess antioxidant and antimicrobial
activity,
helping to keep certain bacteria and fungi from getting out of hand.
Raspberries are a great source of manganese, another player in the antioxidant
scene. All in all, berries are fantastic sources of antioxidants and should be
a part of your recommended daily two cups of fruit as often as possible.
Selection and Storage
Nutritional Values
Serving Size: 1/2 cup raw Calories: 30
Fat: 0 g
Saturated Fat: 0 g
Cholesterol: 0 mg
Carbohydrate: 7 g
Protein: 1 g
Dietary Fiber: 4 g
Sodium: 0 mg
Niacin: 1 mg
Vitamin C: 15 mg
Magnesium: 11 mg
Because they are so
fragile, choose and use raspberries with care and eat them right away. Look for
berries that are brightly colored with no hulls attached. If the green hulls
are still on the berries, they will be tart. Avoid any that look shriveled or
have visible mold. They should be plump, firm, well shaped, and evenly colored,
with no green. They should be packed in a single-layer container and have a
clean, slightly sweet fragrance. When you get them home, don't expect to keep
them around for long. It's best to eat them within a day.
