In the 1890s, Cockney rhyming slang coined the phrase "raspberry tart" as a substitute for the socially unacceptable word "fart." But while that linguistic game may have amused some and spared others offense, it seems hardly fair to the never-stinky, goodness-packed fruit!
Raspberries, it turns out, are a hot new subject for botanists and biological researchers. This year's Experimental Biology conference saw six studies presented on the fruit-and not one elicited a questionable sound or smell. The reaction was quite the opposite.
Scientists from around the globe have discovered that this nubby, red fruit contains a wide variety of important nutrients that may help protect you from cardiovascular disease and bone loss and keep your blood sugar levels healthy and liver function strong. But that's not all. New data shows that raspberries also reduce your risk for a roster of metabolically based chronic conditions, such as being overweight or obese, Type 2 diabetes and even Alzheimer's disease. Seems raspberries may ease bodywide inflammation that is associated with such conditions.
So we suggest you start your day with a handful of these tasty treats sprinkled on your steel cut oatmeal or blended into a smoothie (see some great recipes at sharecare.com). Toss them in a lunch salad dressed with a dash of raspberry vinegar and extra-virgin olive oil. Mix them into some nonfat Greek yogurt for an afternoon snack and consider them a great dessert choice when drizzled with melted dark chocolate alongside a sliced banana or mixed with blueberries. Ready for raspberries yet?
Mehmet Oz, M.D. is host of "The Dr. Oz Show," and Mike Roizen, M.D. is Chief Wellness Officer and Chair of Wellness Institute at Cleveland Clinic. To live your healthiest, tune into "The Dr. Oz Show" or visit www.sharecare.com.
(c) 2016 Michael Roizen, M.D. and Mehmet Oz, M.D.