Raspberries are a rich source of vitamin C—key for collagen production. This is important because collagen is the principal protein in connective tissue. This fibrous, structural molecule provides strength and elasticity to tissue, skin, cartilage, ligaments, tendons and bones. Collagen supply is vital to the skin’s elasticity, keeping it toned and supple, strong and flexible. Exposure to environmental assaults and the natural aging process causes the collagen and elastin that keeps our skin resilient to slowly break down. Unfortunately, as we age the skin’s ability to replace these essential materials diminishes and more gaps and irregularities develop in the collagen mesh, which can lead to wrinkles. Therefore foods high in Vitamin C are critical to beautiful, youthful skin.
Raspberries are also very high in ellagic acid, superior in reducing the damage caused to cells from free radicals and like blueberries they are super anti-aging foods in just about every category. All berries are superb for all organ systems including skin—remember to look for the deeply colored rainbow foods—your indication that these are superior sources of anti-inflammatory antioxidants.
How do you incorporate raspberries into your diet?