The Benefits of Raisins
Raisins just may be natures most healthy snack. Raisins were well known as blood purifiers long before there was scientific evidence to back up that fact. People suffering from boils, carbuncles, skin eruptions or lethargy were given a handful (about 1/4 cup) of raisins a day.
Raisins are dried grapes. We know grapes are high in antioxidants and beneficial nutrients that can help prevent illness and disease, and can also speed recuperation from an illness. When a fruit is dried, all its goodness is concentrated.
- Some of raisins benefits are:
- antioxidant – help keep the blood clean and flowing by removing impurities
- promote bone density and lower the risk of osteoporosis as they are high in calcium and other minerals the body needs to process calcium
- beneficial to healthy teeth and gums due to phytonutrients and olenolic acid
- beneficial to eye sight and may be helpful on preventing macular degeneration
- raisns are high in calories but contain little or no fat so they are a good quick energy source especially for active children and athletes
- good source of fiber and may help prevent constipation
- studies show that raisins contain additional nutritive compounds that may protect against heart disease
- and colon cancer by keeping the arteries and colon clean
- some sources say raisins can help relieve the pain and swelling in arthritic joints
Nutritional value of raisins
* Total Carbohydrates – 79 gm
* Dietary Fiber – 4 gm
* Sugars – 59 gm
* Protein – 3 gm
* Vitamin C – 2.3 mg
* Vitamin E – 0.12 mg
* Vitamin K – 3.5 mcg
* Thiamin – 0.106 mg
* Riboflavin – 0.125 mg
* Niacin – 0.766 mg
* Vitamin B6 – 0.174 mg
* Folate – 5 mcg
* Calcium – 50 mg
* Iron – 1.88 mg
* Magnesium – 32 mg
* Phosphorus – 101 mg
* Potassium – 749 mg
* Sodium – 11 mg
* Zinc – 0.22 mg
* Copper – 0.318 mg
* Manganese – 0.299 mg
* Selenium – 0.6 mcg
Try adding a handful of raisins a day to your diet. The benefits of preventing illness far outweigh a cure.