Raisins are one of the popular ingredients for cooking and baking. They also have great nutritional values.
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- Raisins can reduce constipation. When raisins are ingested, they swell because of the fiber and add bulk to the food moving through the intestinal tract and ultimately help reduce constipation.
- Raisins can lower risk of chronic diseases. Some studies have shown that eating raisins regularly is associated with lower blood glucose levels, reduced blood pressure, lower cholesterol levels, increased satiety and lower overall food consumption. Raisin consumption has the potential to decrease of your risk for developing heart disease, diabetes, and obesity.
- Raisins can help treat anemia. Raisins contain a considerable amount of iron, which helps in the treatment of anemia. They also contain vitamin-B complex that are essential for the formation of new blood as well as high copper content that helps the formation of red blood cells.
- Raisins are good for the eyes. Raisins contain polyphenolic phytonutrients which have antioxidant properties. These phytonutrients can protect eyes from the damage caused by free radicals, age-related weakening of vision, and cataracts. Raisins also contain significant amount of Vitamin A, A-Beta carotene and A-Carotenoid, all of which are essential for good ocular health.
- Raisins are good for skin. Being loaded with antioxidants, raisins help maintain healthy skin. They contain resveratrol, a powerful antioxidant that slows down the aging of the skin cells.
There are a wide variety of raisins and they depend on the type of grape used, and are made in a variety of sizes and colors including green, black, blue, purple, and yellow. Seedless varieties include the sultana (the common American type is known as Thompson Seedless in the USA), the Greek currants and Flame grapes.
Raisins are delicious as they are and they go well with many kinds of dishes and desserts. I personally like to put them in my granola or yogurt for breakfast. Soaking raisins in rum makes delicious rum raisins that goes so well with vanilla ice cream. What is your favorite way to eat raisins?