The Health Benefits of Sun Dried Raisins

Raisins taste good and are used in a lot of recipes. We add them to salads, cereals, oatmeal, cookies, and countless other foods. How much do we really know about raisins and how much nutritional value we are really getting from them? This article will explore the health benefits sun dried raisins provide and help you look at them in a whole new light.

Antioxidants: Raisins are rich in antioxidants. Antioxidants protect our bodies against free radical damage. Normally we don't need to worry about the free radicals, but if our bodies can't find any antioxidants we could start to see the damage (this is called pre-aging). It is important to get antioxidants in to your body through the food you eat. Antioxidants have also been linked to Cancer prevention.

Energy: Many parents give their children raisins before sports games. That is because raisins contain many B vitamins known for boasting energy. I personally eat raisins for this very reason. Raisins are also high in calories, which is important for athletes, and helps them boast their energy naturally before a game.

Fiber: Raisins are a good source of fiber, which is important for your body to stay regular. My family in particular has trouble in the area of constipation, so adding raisins to their diets is important.

Healthy teeth: Don't let the sticky and sweetness of the raisin fool you. Raisins do not cause cavities and gum disease, and rather promote oral health because of the oleanolic acid found within them. This acid is very effective in killing the bacteria that cause cavities and periodontal dental disease.

Eyesight: Raisins are also a preventative measure for Macular Degeneration, which is the health of your eyesight. My Grandmother has this disease so I can attest to the importance of doing everything you can to keep your eyes healthy.

Bone Health: Raisins contain Calcium which in known for causing bone health. Eating enough calcium will also help protect against osteoporosis.

On top of all the other wonderful health benefits raisins are fat free, cholesterol free, and low in sodium. Giving you almost no excuse not to add them in to your diet.

According to the food pyramid we need at least 5 servings per day of fruits and vegetables. 1/4 of a cup of raisins equals 1 serving. Next time you make a bowl of cereal or oatmeal you can add 1/4 cup of raisins and get that extra serving you need.