The creation of raisins from grapes allows you to literally preserve all the vitamins and trace elements of this berry. At the same time, there are 10 times more valuable substances in raisins than in fresh grapes.
Raisins for health
The health benefits of raisins are invaluable – this small berry contains vitamin A, B1, B2, B5 and B6, C, iron, boron, magnesium, calcium, potassium, chlorine, phosphorus. The raisins contain 79.5-87.5% sugar, 2.1-2.9% nitrogenous substances, 0.7-2.3% tartaric and oleanolic acids, 1.3% fiber, 16-22% moisture. Probably, there is not a single organ and system of the human body on which raisins cannot have a beneficial effect.
This dried fruit can be used as a remedy against iron deficiency anemia, digestive disorders, heart and kidney diseases, respiratory organs, hair loss, poor eyesight, skin diseases, erectile dysfunction.
Iron. Raisins will help in the prevention and treatment of anemia. It is often advised to pregnant women with low hemoglobin as a natural way to raise the level of iron in the blood. Raisins in combination with dried apricots are especially useful.
Calcium. Raisins are an excellent source of this mineral substance. Mothers who breastfeed their babies can increase the flow of milk and improve lactation by including dishes containing raisins in their menu.
Potassium and magnesium are good for the cardiovascular system. The use of raisins strengthens the myocardium, improves the conduction of impulses and adjusts the contractile work of the heart. And also raisins significantly reduces swelling and lowers blood pressure.
Shriveled berries contain the trace element boron, without which normal absorption of calcium, the main building element of bones, is impossible.
B vitamins strengthen the nervous system, improve sleep. Thus, raisins can be used as a sedative, relieving tension and fatigue.
Oleanolic acid is a natural antioxidant and immunomodulatory agent. Thanks to it, the cells are not destroyed by the action of free radicals, which means the whole body becomes stronger.
Fructose and glucose. Raisins are a great treat for children. It is a useful substitute for store-bought sweets. Raisins are good as a snack on a walk, on the road, hiking. Unlike sugar, dried grapes supply the human body not only with carbohydrates, but also with a lot of vitamins, minerals, for example, potassium and magnesium.
When raisins are harmful
Despite all the advantages of raisins, there are cases when the use of raisins will be harmful. For example, if you are obese, it is better to exclude raisins from the regular diet, because it is a very high-calorie product – 270-300 Kcal per 100 grams.
The high sugar content makes raisins unhealthy for diabetes mellitus. Diabetics can only have a few raisins and only boiled.
Raisins are not recommended for peptic ulcer of the stomach and duodenum in the acute stage because it contains organic acids that can cause irritation of the mucous membrane, flatulence, and lead to deterioration.
Choosing the right raisins
– Raisin fruits should not have a glossy sheen. This indicates its vaseline coating to give a marketable appearance.
– Do not rush to buy beautiful amber golden raisins. When dried, the grapes darken slightly and have a brown, light brown or black color. It becomes golden thanks to harmful stabilizers.
– Choose wrinkled, fleshy, matte berries without damage. Too hard or soft raisins are also left on the counter. Under-dried, slightly moist indicates improper processing and storage of dried fruits. Such raisins can quickly become unusable.
– It’s good if the tail of the raisins is preserved. This indicates the quality of the product. Such berries have undergone minimal processing, and their integrity is not violated. Remember – from the place where the stalk was removed, rot appears on the berry.