This tiny little dry fruit fondly known as kishmish comes in many varieties and is identified by its colour and size. Raisins come in shades of green, black, blue, purple and yellow and are typically sun-dried but may also be water-dipped, or dehydrated. The most popular types of raisins are sultanas, malagas, monukka, zante currants and Muscat and Thompson seedless raisins.
Did you know that raisins are nothing but grapes that are dried and like all dried fruits are really sweet? However, this sweetness is
a form of natural sugar and not full of fat content.
Do remember that all dried fruits are simply fruits that are dried. They are such a fantastic sweet substitute — full of instant energy. As a matter of fact, if you tend to have sweet cravings just pop some raisins into your mouth. What you get is complete satisfaction as well as a mouthful of health benefits!
It’s so easy to get kids hooked on to raisins instead of chocolates. Our Indian sweets always have a handful of raisins in them and a handful of them are just 90 calories and contain zero fat.
Raisins are high in antioxidants — they are little soldiers that protect us from various diseases caused by free radical damage. The phenolic compounds in raisins are powerful, protective antioxidants which reduce the risk of cancer and heart disease. Despite having a high level of natural sugar, they fight against bacteria in the mouth that cause cavities and gum disease.
Raisins are high in potassium and low in sodium and this is what makes them an ideal part of a heart healthy diet. Because they are high in potassium they keep blood pressure in control. Raisins also contain iron, calcium and most of the B vitamins.
Raisins increase bone density and thus
lower the risk of osteoporosis in women. They are good for the eyes and cure constipation due to their fibre content. So whenever you are craving for sweets, just grab a handful of raisins!
The writer is a Mumbai-based nutritionist