Raisins are processed products from dried grapes. In addition to its delicious taste, the benefits of raisins for health are also not to be missed. Check out the following article to find out more about the benefits of raisins.
Raisins can come in a variety of colors, from brown to yellow to blackish purple. Thanks to its sweet taste and shape, raisins are often consumed as a healthy snack or used as a snack toppings foods, such as muffins, breads, salads, cereals, and yogurt.
Raisin Nutritional Content
The benefits of raisins you can get from the nutrients contained in it. In 28 grams (± 3 tablespoons) of raisins there are 84 calories and various other nutrients, such as:
- Carbohydrates and sugar
- Fiber
- Protein
- Vitamins, namely vitamin C and vitamin B6
- Minerals, namely iron, magnesium, and calcium
In addition, raisins are also high in antioxidants. Types of antioxidants that are widely contained in raisins are phenols and polyphenols.
Various Benefits of Raisins for Health
Below are the various benefits of raisins for general health:
1. Maintain a healthy digestive system
The fiber contained in raisins can improve your digestion. Fiber can bind and soften the stool in the intestine, making it easier to pass stool.
In addition, raisins also contain prebiotics that can support the growth of good bacteria in the intestines. By defecating smoothly and maintaining the number of good bacteria in the intestines, the health of the digestive tract will also be maintained.
2. Maintain dental health
Some of the nutrients in raisins, such as oleanolic acid, linoleic acid, and linolenic acid, have antimicrobial properties. These antimicrobial properties can be useful for fighting bacteria that cause dental problems, such as cavities and gingivitis.
3. Maintain bone health
Raisins also contain calcium and boron. These two minerals play an important role in maintaining the health of your bones and joints. This mineral can also prevent the occurrence of osteoporosis which usually occurs with age.
4. Prevents iron deficiency anemia
Iron deficiency anemia is a fairly common condition in Indonesia. This condition is caused by a lack of iron in the body to produce hemoglobin. Raisins are rich in iron so they are suitable as a source of nutrition to increase your intake of this mineral.
5. Prevent chronic diseases
The content of antioxidants in raisins, such as phenols and polyphenols, is useful for fighting excess free radicals in the body. Excess free radicals left alone have the potential to cause damage to your cells and DNA. This condition will increase the risk of chronic diseases, such as cancer and heart disease.
You can feel the various benefits of raisins above if accompanied by a balanced nutritious diet and a healthy lifestyle. However, there is something to note. Dried fruit, such as raisins, are usually higher in sugar and calories than whole fruit.
Therefore, pay attention to the amount of raisins you eat. In 1 tablespoon of raisins there are approximately 5 grams of sugar. Adjust this amount to your limit of sugar consumption per day.
If you are still unsure about the right portion of raisins in your daily menu, you can consult this first with your doctor.