Aug 7, 2018

Raspberries show promise in reducing risk of heart disease

A new study, conducted by researchers at Kings College London, in collaboration with German and Spanish scientists, shows that consuming raspberries may cut the risk of heart disease by 15 percent by improving circulation and blood-vessel health.

For the study, 10 healthy males between 18 and 35 years old were given drinks made with made with frozen raspberries, and containing either 201 or 403 mg of total polyphenols, including ellagitannins, a potent phytochemical that has also been linked to reduced risk of cancer. Blood and urine tests were administered 2 hours and 24 hours after consuming the drink.

The tests were used to measure flow-mediated dilation (FMD), or the natural widening of the arteries that occurs as blood flow increases. FMD is an indicator of the health of the endothelial lining of blood vessels and is an established biomarker of cardiovascular disease risk. Results showed a significant increase in flow-mediated dilation (FMD) at the 2-hour, which was maintained the next day.

Findings from the study, which was funded by the National Processed Raspberry Council, were published in the August 2018 issue of the scientific journal The Archives of Biochemistry and Biophysics. Dr. Ana Rodriguez-Mateos, the lead researcher on the study, said, “Although more studies are needed to confirm our findings, we are very excited about the potential role of raspberries and ellagitannins in cardiovascular disease prevention.”

Founded in 1988, the New York State Berry Growers Association (NYSBGA) is a nonprofit educational association for berry growers, from large wholesale family farms to independent farm stands and small pick-your-own operations, across New York State. The NYSBGA promotes the growing and marketing of berries through the exchange of valuable information, including scientific research and farming techniques. We also represent growers in issues of labor, research, and technology, both academically and legislatively, and award research grants to study and address issues important to New York State berry growers.

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