Raspberries are a low-calorie, fiber-rich berry with high levels of vitamin C, polyphenols, and anthocyanins that support cellular health and longevity.
InflammationHeartGutBrainBlood SugarAntioxidant
Nutrition per ~140 g · ¾ cup
Form
80kcal
Protein1.4 g
Carbs18.1 g
Fat0.3 g
Fiber0 g
Vitamins
Vitamin C32.3 mg36%
Pantothenic Acid0.46 mg9%
Vitamin K10.9 mcg9%
Vitamin E1.2 mg8%
Folate29.4 mcg7%
Niacin0.84 mg5%
Vitamin B677 mcg5%
Riboflavin53.2 mcg4%
Thiamin44.8 mcg4%
Vitamin A2.8 mcg0%
Minerals & other
Manganese0.69 mg30%
Copper74.1 mcg8%
Magnesium26.8 mg6%
Potassium218 mg5%
Iron0.63 mg4%
Choline17.2 mg3%
Phosphorus38.5 mg3%
Zinc0.31 mg3%
Calcium23.0 mg2%
Selenium0.28 mcg1%
Saturated Fat0.027 g—
Monounsaturated Fat0.090 g—
Polyunsaturated Fat0.52 g—
Bioactives estimated
Anthocyanins~280 mg
Ellagitannins~70 mg
Polyphenols~210 mg
Representative amounts for this food, not measured for this item. Real content varies widely by variety, ripeness and storage.
What drives the score weighted inputs
Nutrient density32.8/35Vitamins and minerals relative to calories — the single biggest driver.
Protein quality5.3/15How much protein it delivers, by absolute grams and per calorie.
Bioactives14.5/15Polyphenols, flavonoids and other beneficial plant compounds.
Fiber10.0/10Dietary fiber for gut health, satiety and steadier blood sugar.
Healthy fats5.0/10Fat quality — unsaturated against saturated, and trans-fat free.
Glycemic impact10.0/10Low sugar with a high fiber-to-carb ratio scores best.
These are the scored components, not a sum: the published score also reflects normalisation across the catalog, so the parts above will not add to 97.
MethylationAntioxidantATP / MitoBoneThyroidCollagenNeurotransmitterDetoxGlucoseHematopoiesisLipidsMembranesClottingHPA AxisGlycolysisβ-OxidationKetogenesisNAD⁺mTORAMPKUrea CycleDopamineSerotoninSteroidogenesisVitamin D ActivationInsulin Signaling
Overview
Raspberries (Rubus species) are native to Asia and Europe and have been cultivated for centuries. Per 100g, they provide 12.9g carbohydrates with minimal calories, making them an efficient nutrient delivery system. Their exceptional polyphenol content—particularly anthocyanins, ellagic acid, and quercetin—distinguishes them nutritionally. These compounds accumulate in the bright red pigment and exert powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects at the cellular level. Raspberries also deliver 23mg vitamin C per 100g (supporting immune function and collagen synthesis), meaningful potassium (156mg, important for cardiovascular health), and manganese (0.49mg, required for bone metabolism and antioxidant enzyme function). The high fiber density relative to caloric load makes raspberries particularly valuable for metabolic health, blood sugar regulation, and gut microbiome support. Research consistently links berry consumption to reduced inflammatory markers, improved endothelial function, and lower chronic disease risk—key mechanisms underlying healthy aging.
Health benefits 5
Reduced oxidative stress and inflammation via anthocyanin and ellagic acid contentstrong
Anthocyanins and ellagic acid scavenge free radicals and upregulate endogenous antioxidant enzyme systems (SOD, catalase), reducing systemic inflammation and oxidative DNA damage.
Improved cardiovascular health and endothelial functionmoderate
Enhanced gut microbiome diversity and metabolic healthmoderate
Fiber and polyphenols serve as substrates for beneficial bacteria (Akkermansia, Faecalibacterium), promoting short-chain fatty acid production and improved glucose metabolism.
Neuroprotection and cognitive function supportmoderate
Anthocyanins cross the blood-brain barrier and reduce neuroinflammation, protecting against age-related cognitive decline via suppression of pro-inflammatory cytokines.
Improved glycemic control and insulin sensitivitymoderate
High fiber content slows glucose absorption; polyphenols inhibit carbohydrate-digesting enzymes and enhance glucose uptake in skeletal muscle.
Pairs with
Pair with Greek yogurt or kefir because the probiotics synergize with raspberry polyphenols to enhance gut barrier integrity and microbial diversity.
Combine with almonds or walnuts because vitamin E in nuts enhances the bioavailability and antioxidant efficacy of raspberry anthocyanins.
Mix with dark chocolate (85%+ cacao) because both are rich in polyphenols; together they create a synergistic reduction in oxidative stress and improve vascular function.
Pair with green tea because catechins in tea enhance the absorption and bioactivity of raspberry flavonoids through complementary polyphenol interactions.
In the kitchen
Purchase fresh raspberries during peak season (June-August in Northern Hemisphere) and freeze immediately on a flat tray, then transfer to airtight containers; frozen raspberries retain anthocyanin content for 6-12 months and are often more affordable.
Consume raspberries with their seeds intact—the seed tannins contain additional ellagic acid and proanthocyanidins that enhance antioxidant power.
Avoid washing raspberries until just before consumption, as their delicate structure and natural bloom (white surface coating) protect polyphenols from oxidation.
Add raspberries to smoothie bowls or oatmeal rather than cooking, as heat degrades heat-sensitive anthocyanins; if cooking is desired, use low temperatures and minimal time.
Aim for 100-150g daily (approximately 1 cup) to achieve meaningful polyphenol intake without excessive fructose; this amount delivers ~15-20g fiber and 50+ mg total polyphenols.
When to eat it anytime
Raspberries have low glycemic impact and no caffeine, making them suitable any time of day. Mid-morning or as a post-meal addition (within 30 minutes after eating carbohydrates) may be slightly advantageous for glycemic control. Evening consumption is safe and may support overnight antioxidant defense.
Fasting-compatible
Raspberries are gentle enough for fasting windows if whole fruit is used; the minimal caloric density and high polyphenol concentration may even enhance fasting-phase autophagy activation, though evidence is emerging.