Nibhanapudi Suguna
Raisins are the dried form of grapes and are available in golden, green and black colors. They are a favorite delicacy for almost everybody, especially for children and can be considered as nature’ s healthy alternative to candies. Mountaineers and trekkers too prefer to have raisins as they are healthy food.
Rasins are used in various cuisines like cookies, cakes, snacks and in many other food items all over the world. They have been in medicinal use for very long as they contain nutrients like natural sugars and potassium. Studies on raisins have confirmed that certain substances in raisins have beneficial effects on practically every part of our body. Further research in the last 20 yeas have revealed that they contain anti oxidant factors which have an important place in medicine and nutrition. This shows how important whole foods are in our diets.
Raisins have the following health benefits :-
A source of energy Packed together with natural sugars, fiber and nutrients, raisins are a great source of energy.
Digestive Health :- The fiber in raisins combined with other acids help to regulate intenstinal functions and proper digestion. Raisins are one of the few fruits that contain reasonable level of tartaric acids which work together with fiber content present in raisins to help ensure proper bowel provement and throw away the toxins and the waste material from the gastronomical tract.
Regulates blood pressure : Including raisins in the diet regularly helps control blood pressure. Since raisns are high in potassium and low in sodium they ensure a very heart healthyt diet.
Treats Anemia : Raisins contain very high amount of Iron which helps in trating anemia Raisins also helps in formation of blood because it contains many members of B complex and also contains copper which helps in the formation of red blood cells.
Treats Fever : Anti-bacterial and anti-oxidant properties are present in abundance in raisins. They help cure fever by fighting bacterial and viral infections in the body.
Bone halth : Raisins are a rich source of calcium which is vital for the strengehening of bones. It is also a very good source of Boron, a micro nutrient which is necessary for proper absorpition of calcium. It is particularly helpful in preventing osteroporosis induced by menopause in women.
Eye care : Raisins contain large quantities of polyphenolic phytonutrients which have anti oxidant properties and are good for our eyes. They protect eyes from damage caused by free radicals like macular degeneration and weakneing of vision, cataract etc. They also contain good amount of vitamin A. A Beta carotene and A carotenoid which are all essential for good ocular health.
Reduces acidity : The potassium and magnesium contents in raisins help reduce acidity. They remove toxins from the body which causes diseases like arthiritis, gout, kidney stones and other heart dieases.
Enhances mouth health : Raisins contain Oleanolic acid which provides protection against tooth decay and cavities. They also prevent the growth of harmful bacteria that causes other dental diseases. The interesting fact about raisins is that the longer they stick to your teeth the better it is, as it ensures longer contact of Oleanolic acid to the teeth that heel and prevent the growth of bacteria. Boron present in the raisins plays a very important role in checking the growth of germs in the mouth.
Help relieve constipaiton : The fiber in raisins puffs up and absorbs water, which in turn help give relief from constipation.
Other Health Benefits of Raisins : The anti-oxidants present in raisins are very effective in preventing tumors and colon cancer. These anti-oxidants help keep the blood clean and flowing. The fiber in raisins helps in the excretion of bile from the body, burning of cholesterol and there by ensuring good cardiac health. Raisins are small, easy to store, carry and eat. CNF