Looking for a tasty, healthy snack? How about some raisins? In the form of sugars and calories, they are a good source of energy, and essential minerals and nutrients. Throughout your day, you can simply grab a handful and be on your way. They can also be used as topping for cereals and yogurts. You may wish to include them in other things such as granola, trail mix, and baked goods.
So exactly how are raisins good for you? Let's find out.
Help Lower Blood Sugar
You may be able to lower your blood sugar by regularly eating raisins, according to a Postgraduate Medicine study.
Promote Skin and Eye Health
With the antioxidants found in raisins, you can prevent damage from aging cells and keep your skin cells younger. Other nutrients that come into play here are zinc, selenium, and vitamin C.
Antioxidants/polyphenols contained in raisins can help prevent free radical damage to eye cells. In turn, this may protect the eyes from various disorders like cataracts and age-related macular degeneration.
Discourage Cancer
The antioxidant compounds in raisins can help protect the body from free radicals and oxidative damage which increase the risk of tumor growth and some cancers.
Lower the Risk of Heart Disease
Eating raisins may help reduce blood pressure problems and other cardiovascular risk factors. To help blood vessels relax, the potassium in raisins is beneficial and they are low in sodium.
Reduce Acidity
Potassium, magnesium, copper, iron, and other beneficial minerals are contained in raisins in impressive amounts. These can help balance the stomach’s acidity levels.
Discourage Anemia
The vitamins, copper, and iron in raisins can help prevent anemia. These help carry oxygen throughout the body, as well as making red blood cells.
Digestion Aid
Keep your digestive system healthier by doing something as easy as eating raisins. Soluble fibers help waste pass through the body's intestines. This can promote regularity and improve digestion.
Types of Raisins
The above-stated information applies to raisins in general. But are golden raisins good for you? What about red raisins? Black?
The following are different types of raisins:
- Green raisins
- Red raisins
- Currants
- Sultanas
- Golden raisins
- Black or regular raisins
The healthiest type of raisin is actually the golden raisin. They are high in flavonoids, potassium, iron, fiber, and other essential minerals.
Trail Mix Recipes
The following ingredients can be combined for a tasty, handy trail mix snack…
Dried Fruit Trail Mix:
- Flaked coconut
- Raisins (any kind you wish – even cran-raisins)
- Chocolate chips (if desired, substitute carob chips)
- Cashews
- Dried apricots (substitute dried blueberries, cherries, or other dried fruit)
Chocolate Coconut Trail Mix:
- Chocolate chips (milk chocolate or semisweet)
- Cashews
- Coconut flakes
- M&Ms
- Peanuts (roasted salted give you a nice contrast)
If you're not into creating your own trail mix, you can buy it ready-made from Tierra Farms.
Looking For Organic Raisins, Chocolate-Covered Raisins, and More? Shop Tierra Farm
When it comes to raisins we have several options. We also carry an organic berry mix and other dried fruits. All of our products are organic and come from a facility that is both solar-powered and peanut-free. Contact us today if you require any assistance.
