We use raisins along with cranberries in all our Scrummies fruit snacks. They are both delicious and really healthy for snacking on and have loads of nutritional benefits. We have put together loads of interesting things about raisins and why we think we should be on everyones nibble list.
Raisins pack more nutrition than their small size might indicate. When grapes are dehydrated to produce raisins, the nutrients become more concentrated, making a handful of raisins a snack rich in B vitamins, iron and potassium. Besides nutrients, raisins are also a good source of carbohydrates for energy.
Raisin – comes from the Latin racemus and means “a cluster of grapes or berries”. It is believed that humans discovered raisins when they happened upon grapes drying on a vine. History books note that raisins were sun-dried from grapes as long ago as 1490 B.C. But several hundred years passed before it was determined which grape variety would make the best raisin. It takes more than 4 tons of grapes to produce 1 ton of raisins and the most common way of drying them is using the natural power of the sun.
Raisins are also called ‘little gems’ because of their numerous skin, hair and health benefits.
1. Digestion:
Raisins are loaded with fibres, which swell when they absorb water and effectively provide relief from constipation. Regular intake of raisins helps regularize bowel movement as the fibre removes the toxins and wastes from the gastrointestinal tract.
2. Anemia:
Raisins are a rich source of iron and copper as well as B complex vitamins which are vital for the formation of red blood cells. Regular consumption of raisins helps cure iron deficiency anemia and promotes blood clotting during wound healing.
2. Fever:
Raisins are abundant in phenolic phytochemicals, which are known for their germicidal, antibacterial, and antioxidant properties. They can help cure fever by fighting viral and bacterial infections.
4. Cancer:
Raisins contain high levels of polyphenolic antioxidants called catechins. These antioxidants scavenge the free radicals that cause the development of tumors, especially colon cancer. Thus, including raisins in your diet is an effective way of preventing the formation of cancer cells.
5. Acidity:
Raisins contain potassium and magnesium, which help reduce acidity. Acidosis is an abnormal metabolic condition characterized by toxicity of blood which, often gives rise to gases in the respiratory system. This condition is harmful as it can lead to health problems like boils, skin diseases, arthritis, gout, renal calculi, hair loss, heart disease and even cancer. Potassium and magnesium are important components of antacids. Being considered bases on the pH scale, they help in neutralizing the acids, thus preventing acidosis.
6. Eye Health:
The polyphenolic phytonutrients contained in raisins are good for ocular health as they protect your eyes from damage by free radicals, thus preventing macular degeneration, cataracts, and age related weakening of vision. They also contain significant amounts of beta carotene, vitamin A and carotenoids which improve eyesight and keep your eyes pure and sharp.
7. Dental Health:
Raisins contain a phytochemical called oleanolic acid which provides protection against tooth decay, cavities, and teeth brittleness. It inhibits the growth of bacterial species Streptococcus Mutans and Porphyromonas Gingivalis which cause cavities and other dental problems. Besides, raisins are rich in calcium which prevents breaking or peeling away of teeth and enamel and makes them stronger. Boron present in raisins prevents the growth of germs as well as whitens the teeth.
8. Energy Booster:
Being loaded with carbs, particularly natural sugars like fructose and glucose, raisins are a good source of energy. They facilitate efficient absorption of vitamins, proteins and other nutrients in the body. They are often consumed by body builders and athletes to provide a quick boost of energy.
9. Insomnia:
Iron in raisins is beneficial in treating insomnia as it improves the quality of sleep in an individual.
10. Hypertension:
Raisins are rich in iron, potassium, antioxidants and B-complex vitamins, which help to maintain normal blood pressure. The high level of potassium, in particular, reduces the tension of blood vessels and decreases blood pressure naturally while the dietary fibre affects the biochemistry of blood vessels and reduces their stiffness, thus lowering hypertension. The high level of potassium and absence of sodium make raisins ideal food for a heart-healthy diet.
11. Bone Health:
Raisins contain calcium, which is the main element of our bones. It helps strengthen bones and promotes bone growth. They are also one of the best sources of boron, a micronutrient that is required by the body in small amounts. This micronutrient is vital for bone formation and calcium absorption. It is particularly beneficial in preventing menopause induced osteoporosis in women as well as strengthens bones and joints.
12. Heart Health:
Regular consumption of raisins provides protection against heart disease. By lowering cholesterol as well as triglyceride levels, raisins improve the overall condition of your heart, thus lowering the risk of strokes, hypertension and heart attack.
13. Kidney Health:
Since raisins are rich in potassium, consuming them regularly prevents the formation as well as recurrence of kidney stones.
14. Weight:
Raisins, when eaten in proportion and combined with physical exercise, can aid in weight loss. The high fibre content in raisins keeps you full for a longer time. Raisins are particularly beneficial for underweight people who wish to gain weight in a healthy way. They are high in natural sugars, fructose, and glucose, which can help in weight gain without raising the cholesterol levels.
15. Clear Skin:
Being loaded with antioxidants, raisins help to maintain healthy and glowing skin. They contain resveratrol, a powerful antioxidant that slows down the aging of the skin cells. Raisins purify your blood by eliminating toxic and black cells, and improve the formation of red blood cells by supplying oxygen to your skin. These blood purifying properties of raisins make your skin clear, radiant, nourished, and beautiful.
We hope you find these fruit facts of interest and if you would like to hear more please let us know.
Rick and James x
