Reason to Love Raisins

Raisins are an extremely delicious and widely popular variety of dry fruits. They are obtained by drying grapes either in the sun or in driers such that they turn golden, green or black in colour. Their crinkly look might not appear pleasing to many, but they are one of the healthiest snacks around. In fact, they are a suitable alternative to candies and chocolates because of their delicious sweet taste. They can be eaten raw or used in cooking, baking and brewing. 

One small box of raisins (1.5 ozs) contains 1.32 grams of protein, 129 calories and 1.6 grams dietary fiber.

Minerals:

Potassium - 322 mg 

Phosphorus - 43 mg 

Magnesium - 14 mg 

Calcium - 22 mg 

Sodium - 5 mg 

Iron - 0.81 mg 

Selenium 0.3 mcg 

Manganese - 0.129 mg 

Copper - 0.137 mg 

Zinc - 0.09 mg 

Also contains small amounts of other minerals.

Vitamins:

Vitamin B1 (thiamine) - 0.046 mg 

Vitamin B2 (riboflavin) - 0.054 mg 

Niacin - 0.329 mg 

Folate - 2 mcg 

Pantothenic Acid - 0.041 mg 

Vitamin B6 - 0.075 mg 

Vitamin C - 1 mg 

Vitamin E - 0.05 mg 

Vitamin K - 1.5 mcg 

Contains some other vitamins in small amounts.

Benefits:

1. A small box of raisins contains 34 grams of carbohydrates which make them a good source of instant energy.
2. Raisins are very effective in promoting bowel health. Eating fiber-packed raisins on a regular basis can help keep you, well, regular!
3. Eating raisins curbs the growth of harmful bacteria in the mouth and helps prevent cavities, gingivitis and tooth decay. If you have a sweet tooth, pop healthy raisins instead of teeth-damaging candy.
4. Raisins contain a good amount of potassium and magnesium, two power minerals known to help lower blood pressure and reduce cholesterol.
5. Raisins are a good source of calcium, the mineral that contributes to building and maintaining strong bones and protects against osteoporosis.
6. Eating dried grapes helps prevent and treat arthritis and kidney stones.
7. Raisins contain elements that have anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory properties that protects body against infection.
8. The presence of polyphenolic phytonutrients in raisins benefit your vision.  These powerful plant chemicals offer protection against macular degeneration, and cataracts.
9. Raisins are a rich source of iron; a mineral that is essential for the production of hemoglobin in the body. People suffering from deficiency i.e. anemia can benefit from raisin’s high iron content.
10. People who are underweight can benefit from eating raisins often to add healthy calories to the diet.

-

Share on Google Plus