Dried black raspberries are an excellent antioxidant source, apparently. A report presented at the American Association for Cancer Research Conference, and published in Nutrition and Cancer, described the benefits of this fruit on the progress of Barrett's esophagus.

Barrett's esophagus is a condition of the lower part of the gullet that occurs in people with long-standing GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disorder); it is termed pre-malignant, i.e. it increases the risk of cancer of the lower esophagus 30- to 40-times.

The scientist reporting at the meeting said that dried black raspberries were chosen for study as they are known to have high levels of antioxidants, vitamins, fiber, and anthrocyanins (which are responsible for the dark color of the fruit). Twenty patients with Barrett's esophagus (average age 59) were given 32 grams (women) or 45 grams (men) of freeze-dried black raspberries, daily for 6 months. (45 grams is about 2 cups of dried raspberries, but for this study the fruit was provided as a soluble powder.)

Urine tests showed a reduction of oxidative stress markers in the patients; the decreases were highly significant, amounting to 'dramatic reductions' in 58% of the patients. Biopsies of the Barrett's tissue were taken at the start and the end of the 6 months, but the results haven't been fully analyzed yet; there were no apparent changes in the rate of cell multiplication, though.

Maybe we shouldn't get too excited about these findings, just yet. But as someone who loves raspberries (though I haven't tried black ones), I'm happy to find this support for eating more fruit to help prevent cancer. It will almost certainly pay off. And, if necessary, you can always turn to black raspberry wine.