Raisins are obtained by drying grapes, either in the sun or in driers, which turns the grapes into golden, green or purple black. Raisins are irreplaceable as a healthy member of the dry fruits category, contain more fiber, vitamins, minerals and poly-phenol antioxidants than the fresh grapes. Take a look at the health benefits of raisins, you would be surprised to know that this tiny dry fruit is very healthy and nutritious.
Tooth care:
New findings provide evidence that raisins may protect against cavities. Raisins have oleanolic acid which protects the teeth from cavity and decay. This acid effectively prevents the growth of Streptococcus Mutans and Porphyromonas Gingivalis, two of the bacterial species that are most responsible for cavities and other dental problems.
Enhances Bone Health:
Raisins contains Calcium which is important for good bone health. The other one micronutrient is abundant in raisins–boron–aids in calcium absorption and bone formation. Women after menopause must have this calcium and boron rich dry fruit to prevent osteoporosis.
Prevents cancer:
Raisins have high levels of catechins, which are polyphenolic antioxidants in the blood. Catechins provides protection against free radicals, which causes the development of tumors, specifically colon cancer. Therefore, by including raisins in your diet and increasing the level of these powerful antioxidants in your system, you can prevent cancer from forming, or slow down its progress if you have already developed a number of forms of that deadly disease.
Reduce risk of diabetes and heart disease:
Based on a comprehensive review of nearly 80 studies, researchers found that raisin consumption may reduce the risk of developing diabetes and heart disease. Raisins rich in heart-healthy electrolyte potassium. 100 g provide 749 mg of potassium. Potassium reduces heart rate, blood pressure by countering sodium and thereby helps prevent stroke, CHD, and peripheral vascular diseases. It also help to modulates the sugar absorption by the body, making it more even and stable, reducing the chance of health complications or emergencies for those suffering from both major types of diabetes.
Erectile dysfunction:
Men who have this sexual problem must have raisins. Raisins have long been known to stimulate the libido and induce arousal, primarily due to an amino acid in raisins called arginine helps to arouse the libido. Arginine also increases the levels of sperm motility, which can increase the chances of conception when engaging in sexual intercourse.
Treat anemia:
Raisins contain a considerable amount of iron which directly helps in the treatment of anemia. If the body does not produce enough red blood cells, anemia results. Iron is necessary in the formation of red blood cells. So if you are an anemic, then include this healthy dry fruit in your diet.
However, raisins are quite high in calories, per 100 grams of raisins have about 300 calories, which can increase weight gain quickly if you are not careful. Of course, if you want to increase the weight is another matter. Like all dried fruits, raisins are very good tools for gaining weight in a healthy way.
