Raisins / Kishmish

Health and Nutrition Facts

Nutritious-Raisins are really healthy and nutritious dried fruits. Raisins are high in antioxidants that help to get rid of the impurities in our blood, making it clean and keeping it flowing. Raisins have 70% of fructose, so they can be used as a quick snack. They contain calcium too, which is needed for good bone health. Raisins do not have any preservatives in them, the fructose itself acts as a natural preservative. They do not contain cholesterol and are a very rich source of fibre.

Constipation -When immersed in water, raisins swell as the fibre present in them absorbs water. This helps giving relief for constipation.

Weight Gain -Raisins are very good for gaining weight, as they are full of fructose and glucose and give lot of energy. Thus, they form an ideal part of the diet for athletes or body builders who need a lot of energy.

Acidosis -Acidosis is a state of increased acidity of the blood (also known astoxicity of the blood), the source being our stomach acid. Raisins are good source of potassium and magnesium which neutralize the acids and help check acidosis.

Anaemia -Raisins contain considerable amount of iron which directly helps treating anaemia.

Libido -Raisins are known to stimulate libido and induce arousal.

Bone Health –Raisins have calcium and is one of the best sources of Boron, which is necessary for proper bone formation and absorption of calcium.Boron is particularly helpful in preventing osteoporosis induced by menopause in women and is very beneficial for bones and joints.

Eye Care -Raisins have anti oxidant properties that are very good for eye health, as they protect eyes from macularde generation, age related weakening of vision, cataract, etc. In addition, raisins contain a very good amount of vitamin A.

Dental Care -Raisins also help to fight dental problems such as cavities, gum diseases etc.,as they contain oleanolic acid. The oleanolic acid in raisins helps to kill the bacteria that are present in the plaque that builds upon the teeth.

Interesting facts

It takes 4 pounds of fresh grapes to make 1 pound of raisins.
It takes three years to produce a single raisin, from planting the vine to harvesting.
In the 14th century, Christmas puddings were made as a kind of soup with raisins and wine.
In the 17th century, raisins were considered a spice alongside salt, sugar, currants, dates, figs and apricots.
Ancient Greeks and Romans decorated places of worship with raisins and handed them out to winners in sporting contests.
Roman physicians prescribed raisins to cure everything from mushroom poisoning to old age. With such praise came an increase in the dried fruit's value.
In ancient Rome, two jars of raisins could be traded for one slave.