Raisins: benefits and harm to the body

Raisins are an extremely tasty and very popular type of dried fruit. This product is obtained by drying grapes in the sun or using special equipment. Dried berries have many beneficial properties and have been used by people for about 5 thousand years. Their appearance does not cause particularly pleasant emotions, however, raisins are considered one of the most wholesome snacks. In fact, this is a great alternative to sweets, as the berries have a deliciously sweet taste. The product can be consumed both raw and used for baking or cooking. Dried fruits are used to make desserts, cookies, pies and puddings.

What is raisins and what is it made of

Raisins are nothing but dried grape berries. This is a well-known fact, but not everyone knows that only certain grape varieties can be dried. It is worth noting that dried fruits contain a greater amount of nutrients than natural grapes. To understand what raisins are, you need to understand in more detail how it is made. To begin with, it should be said that there are several drying methods:

• in the sun;
• in the shadow;
• using sulfur;
• using heating systems.

The best option is drying in the shade, as it allows the fruit to dry gradually, which contributes to a better quality product. Before drying itself, as a rule, grapes must be sorted. The most ripe clusters with juicy berries will do. To do this, you should equip a special room in which you need to pull a wire or fishing line on which the grapes will be hung. Drying lasts about 2-3 months.

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1. Light coloured. Green and light grape varieties are used, the product is made from small and large berries, peeled. It is rich in carbohydrates, which explains its sweetness. It is used in cooking for baking or in traditional medicine as a remedy for constipation.
2. Dark. Produced from dark seedless varieties. The color of the berries can vary from burgundy black to purple-blue-black. The size of the berries is small. The product is rich in antioxidants and has a very sweet, almost sugary taste. There are no seeds in it, so raisins are actively used in cooking.
3. Classical. The color of the berries is yellowish-olive-gray. Fruits are medium in size and contain a stone. Used to make sweet drinks.
4. Sweet. Large, fleshy berries have a sweet taste. The color of the skin varies from light brown to light amber, in the pulp there are bones. The seedless product is used in baking. After heat treatment, the berries do not lose either color or bright saturated taste, therefore raisins are actively used in cooking.

Which raisins are healthier: dark or light

Dark raisins are considered more beneficial than light raisins.The reason is that the first type helps to get rid of various ailments more effectively, since it contains more nutrients.

Composition and calorie content

100 g of product contain:

• calories - 264 kcal;
• proteins - 2.9 g;
• fats - 0.6 g;
• carbohydrates - 66 g.

The product is rich in dietary fiber and natural sugars. It contains vitamins of group B, H and PP. In addition, the fruit contains a high concentration of potassium, as well as minerals - calcium, magnesium, iron and phosphorus.

What is useful raisins

General benefit

1. Good for digestion. Raisins have a rich supply of dietary fiber. They help regulate the concentration of natural fluids in the body. Insoluble fiber promotes a better movement of food through the intestines, therefore, it can help get rid of constipation. Enough to include in the diet up to two small portions of raisins per day, to significantly improve colon function and reduce the likelihood of developing colon cancer. In addition, dietary fiber helps remove toxins and harmful accumulations from the digestive tract. It also helps to protect against intestinal diseases, prevents the progression of bacterial growth, and relieves discomfort, for example, with bloating. Studies show that some compounds in dried fruits can kill cancer cells and prevent them from multiplying. In particular, phenolic compounds prevent the development of stomach cancer.
2. Regulates acid-base balance. Raisins contain potassium and magnesium - substances that help reduce the acidity of the body. Acidosis (increased acidity) is a pathological metabolic condition that can lead to disruption of the respiratory system. In addition, the risk of arthritis, heart disease, and even cancer is increased. Potassium and magnesium are important components of antacids, they help to neutralize the effect of acids, thereby preventing acidosis.
3. Useful for anemia. Raisins are a rich source of copper and iron, substances that are involved in the processes associated with the formation of red blood cells. Regular use of this product helps treat iron deficiency anemia and promotes better blood coagulation.
4. Promotes dental and oral health. Dried fruits are rich in calcium. This mineral helps strengthen teeth and remineralizes tooth enamel. Boron, which is present in dried fruits, helps to inhibit the spread of germs in the oral cavity, which also helps to strengthen the teeth. Regular consumption of dried berries inhibits the growth and spread of Streptococcus Mutans and Porphyromonas Gingivalis bacteria, which cause tooth decay and other dental problems.
5. Saturated with antioxidants. Raisins are rich in catechins and polyphenolic phytonutrients. They protect the body from damage caused by the activity of free radicals. As a result, the growth and spread of cancer cells is suppressed.
6. Strengthens bone health. Calcium, the main element that supports bone health, is also present in the fruit. It strengthens bones and contributes to their normal development. Dried grape fruits are rich in boron. This trace element helps to absorb calcium. The complex of all these substances can help prevent osteoporosis.
7. Natural aphrodisiac. Raisins are a product that can stimulate the reproductive system. The arginine amino acid contained in the product is useful for maintaining a normal erection. Arginine is a natural aphrodisiac that activates sperm and increases the chances of conception. Consuming raisins on a daily basis also helps increase sexual stamina.
8. Supports skin health. Raisins, being saturated with antioxidants, help maintain healthy skin. The product contains resveratrol, a powerful antioxidant that slows down the aging of skin cells.Raisins purifies the blood and supports the processes associated with the production of red blood cells, supplying more oxygen to the skin. These raisins blood-purifying properties make the skin more clean, radiant and beautiful.
9. Supports healthy hair. Raisins are a good source of iron, a complex of vitamins B, potassium and antioxidants, which play an important role in maintaining healthy hair. Consuming it regularly can help reduce hair loss and prevent baldness.
10. Promotes good sleep. Iron deficiency in the body can cause insomnia. The consumption of iron-rich foods, including raisins, will fill this shortage and provide a good night's sleep.
11. Cholesterol control. To maintain heart health, you need to control your cholesterol. Raisins are a natural product that will help to do this. Elevated levels of low density lipoproteins (LDL), which is considered bad cholesterol, are the main cause of heart attacks. Raisins can lower LDL and triglycerides in the body and thereby help maintain heart health.
12. It fights hypertension. Raisins are rich in iron and antioxidants, which have a positive effect on the circulatory system and maintain normal blood pressure. In particular, a high level of potassium naturally weakens pressure on the walls of blood vessels, while dietary fiber affects the biochemistry of blood vessels and reduces their stiffness, thereby relieving hypertension. High potassium levels and a lack of sodium also make raisins an excellent food for maintaining a healthy circulatory system.
13. Supports kidney health. Since dried fruits are rich in potassium, their regular use prevents the formation and relapse of kidney stones.

For women

Women definitely need to include raisins in their diet, as this delicious sweet dessert has a wide range of healing properties. Dried berries will help normalize the nervous system, alleviate stress and depression.

In addition, the product will improve sleep and relieve insomnia, which often affects the fair sex. Hormonal changes in the body during menopause affect the increased risk of osteoporosis. To exclude this probability, it is necessary to eat dried fruits on a regular basis. They will help prevent calcium loss and enrich the body with phosphorus, thereby strengthening bone tissue and making it more mobile. The complex of minerals contained in dried grapes has a beneficial effect on the condition of teeth and hair.

It is important to note that not only men can face impotence. Women are also prone to such ailments. With a deficiency of vitamin A in the body, the risk of such pathologies increases significantly. Raisins will enrich the body with vitamin A, which takes part in the synthesis of progesterone, thereby helping to better control menstrual cycles.

For men

Vitamin A, contained in raisins, helps the male body cope with the problems of the reproductive system. A lack of this vitamin increases the risk of testicular atrophy and provokes a decrease in the production of male hormones. Dried berries are rich in this vitamin, so they will help saturate the body and relieve worries regarding male power. Raisins also contribute to increased attraction and can even provoke arousal. Due to the presence of such an amino acid as arginine in the body, the hormonal balance normalizes and the desire increases.

Erectile dysfunction is another problem in which dried fruits are recommended. Berries are beneficial for men who are constantly stressed because they contain carbohydrates and natural sugars, which are an excellent source of energy. They also contribute to the effective absorption of many nutrients.This product is often included in the diet of bodybuilders and athletes, as it can provide a quick flow of energy.

During pregnancy

Raisins are allowed to be used during pregnancy. It is rich in nutrients that support the growth and development of the fetus in the womb. Iron deficiency anemia is a common problem of women in position. Raisins are rich in iron and vitamin C, substances that help reduce the risk of anemia. Also, many women suffer from digestive disorders, while the most common problem is constipation. Raisins can solve this annoying problem, as it contains fiber, which facilitates the process of bowel movement.

In addition, dried grapes support dental health, so it helps to get rid of gingivitis - a common disease of pregnant women. Dried fruits are an excellent source of glucose and fruit sugars, so even a handful of raisins will be enough to get an instant charge of energy.

Although this product is good for health, in case of excessive consumption, it can harm both the mother and the baby. The product can trigger an increase in blood sugar and, therefore, will cause gestational diabetes in women. In addition, due to the high calorie content of dried berries, a baby in the womb can accumulate excess fat, which will lead to difficulties during childbirth.

Another side effect of excessive consumption is an increase in the child's likelihood of developing type 2 diabetes. It is recommended to use no more than one handful of raisins per day - this is the optimal dose that will enrich the body of a pregnant woman with a sufficient amount of useful substances.

When breastfeeding

You can use raisins when breastfeeding. It will help get rid of fatigue and postpartum depression, restore the functioning of the heart muscle, contribute to the normalization of the skin condition, strengthen nails and teeth. Dried berries are also beneficial for apathy and are effective in controlling allergy symptoms and inflammation. In addition, with their use, immunity will increase, headaches will pass. Enter raisins in the diet of a nursing woman should be 2-3 months after the birth of the baby. In the first dose it will be enough to eat one small portion (5 g), and after that, during the day you need to monitor the condition of the baby. If there is no allergy, then the product is suitable for further use. After a while, when such food becomes already familiar, the portion can be increased to 10 g, but you can eat raisins no more than 2-3 times a week.

Before eating grapes, it is necessary to rinse and pour them boiled water for 5 minutes to soften. It is worth paying attention to the naturalness of the product. The best option would be wrinkled, opaque pitted raisins. From them you can make uzvar that will help a woman’s still weakened body better absorb the necessary vitamins. In case of diabetes, with ulcers and heart failure, this product is forbidden.

For children

Raisins are an excellent source of carbohydrates and iron, substances that are necessary for the children's body. Dried berries can be a healthy alternative to sweets and other sweets. The product is rich in minerals that will help in the mental and physical development of the child. Raisins are also useful in cases of fever and in the treatment of head injuries. Dried fruits help protect the central nervous system and improve brain cognitive abilities.

Despite the fact that raisins are a storehouse of nutrients, do not forget about the norms and rules of its use. You should not include the product in the diet of the child until he is 7-9 months old.

If the baby's teeth have not yet begun to erupt, it is worthwhile to wait with the berries. Children with physical problems and developmental delays may also find it difficult to swallow and chew such food. It is better to give crushed raisins - this will facilitate the use of the product.

Experts recommend that children not drink juices based on raisins.This can be done only in extreme cases, for example, with fever, and then only after consulting a doctor. Even with the observance of the norm and the absence of contraindications, raisins can still have a negative effect on the baby's body. For example, pieces of berries can remain on the teeth, thereby provoking the active growth of bacteria. In the long run, this can affect the enamel. It is recommended to give crushed raisins as part of other dishes. You should not feed the baby with berries while riding in a car, as this increases the likelihood of food entering the respiratory tract. It is also necessary to ensure that the child ate one zest at a time.

Is it possible to eat raisins while losing weight

Raisins do not help to lose weight directly, but it contributes to weight loss in indirect ways. Eating raisins daily will help you stay fit and maintain your energy level. However, dried berries alone will not bring any benefit if they are not supplemented with regular training.

Dried fruits can act as sugar substitutes. Dried grapes are rich in natural sugars, so it is an excellent substitute in this regard. In addition, raisins contribute to a more active generation of energy, which is necessary for more effective weight loss. It is rich in glucose and fructose, substances that, when ingested, are processed into energy. And the complex of vitamins present in dried fruits helps to supply energy to the muscles.

Low metabolic rate and poor digestion are the main reasons for slowing down weight loss. Raisins are rich in fiber, which helps speed up the digestion process. With normal digestion of food, fats do not accumulate in the body. Obese people often suffer from bone diseases. Excess weight affects the bones not in the best way, making them weaker and more fragile. Raisins will help maintain the strength of the bones and improve their motor ability.

Raisins in medicine

Raisins are used in medicine for the prevention of cardiovascular diseases, with hypertension and throat diseases. Dried berry infusions are effective in combating jaundice. They can also be used to treat dysentery, some kidney and bladder diseases. Raisins have bactericidal, antibacterial and antioxidant properties and can be used in the treatment of fever.

With diabetes

Raisins for diabetes should be used with extreme caution, because even a small amount of the product can affect a sharp increase in blood glucose. In diabetes, spikes in sugar can be dangerous.

Opinions of experts on the consumption of dried fruits in diabetes were divided. Some say that patients need to completely eliminate raisins from their diet. Others confidently declare the usefulness of the product even during the course of the disease. In any case, with a severe form of the disease, this product is contraindicated. Generally speaking, it is recommended to soak raisins in hot water before use, this will reduce its harmful effect on the body. The maximum daily dose is up to 1 tbsp. spoons, and you can not eat it daily.

Important: the glycemic index of raisins - 65 units.

With pancreatitis

During an exacerbation of pancreatitis, raisins are forbidden to be used, since it overloads the pancreas with carbohydrates. In the remission phase, dried fruits are added to various cereals, some meat and fish dishes, and also eaten together with bakery products. The product will help restore strength and maintain overall health. With pancreatitis, raisins can only be eaten in processed form. The maximum daily dose is up to 1 handful, and the reception should be organized in the morning.

With gastritis

In case of increased acidity, it is forbidden to use raisins, since it acts as a stimulant to increase the acidity of the stomach. If we talk about low acidity, then in this case, raisins are not prohibited, but especially not recommended for use. The product will replenish energy reserves and complement a lean diet.Preference should be given to dark varieties, as they are rich in useful substances. Light raisins in stores are typically treated with chemicals that can harm the stomach. Before use, the product must be thoroughly washed.

In the acute phase of the disease, raisins are contraindicated in any acidity. In their natural form, berries should not be eaten; it is better to make decoctions from them.

For the intestines

Regular consumption of raisins helps to normalize the intestines and improves the general condition of the digestive system. It will also contribute to regular and systematic bowel movements. The dietary fiber present in the product will help in removing toxins and toxins from the body.

For constipation

Normal intestinal motility is the most important factor in good health. Fiber-rich foods, including raisins, improve motility and facilitate gastrointestinal tract function. Dried grapes help digested food to pass freely through the gastrointestinal tract.

With gout

When gout is forbidden to eat grapes both fresh and dried. Moreover, this should not be done neither in the period of exacerbation, nor in the phase of remission.

With colitis

With colitis, experts do not recommend, and in some cases even forbid, raisins. If during the course of the disease the patient suffers from diarrhea, then dried berries should not be eaten. In case of constipation, you can include them in the diet, but after consulting with your doctor, you should use dried grapes only as part of other dishes.

For the liver

Raisins are good for the liver, because it contains inulin, which helps cleanse this body of toxins and toxins. Infusions on dried grapes are often recommended as a means to cleanse the liver, which has a mild effect.

With hemorrhoids

Raisins are also useful for hemorrhoids because they have a mild laxative effect, which in turn prevents damage to the inflamed area.

With cholecystitis

Raisins are allowed for cholecystitis. It is recommended to make drinks based on dried grapes, they are more useful in this case.

Raisin-based traditional medicine recipes

Means for cleansing the body of toxins

1. Washed corn grits (1 cup) pour hot water (2.5 cups).
2. Add vegetable oil, a small amount of soaked raisins, sugar, salt and mix.
3. Cover and place in the oven for half an hour.
4. Eat porridge.

To normalize the digestive tract

1. Washed raisins (0.5 cups) mixed with oatmeal (1.5 cups).
2. Pour with water (1.5 l), put on fire.
3. After boiling, cover and put in a warm place for 4 hours (it is recommended to wrap with a blanket).
4. Strain the infusion, add lemon juice and honey to it (to taste).
5. Take the product warm, 0.5 cups half an hour before a meal, throughout the day. The course of treatment is 10 days.

To normalize the heartbeat

1. Mix anise seeds (5 g) with coriander (3 g) and raisins (11 pieces).
2. Pour warm water (1 cup), leave overnight.
3. In the morning, strain and consume.

To extend youth

1. Mix 2 lemons (without removing the zest), raisins (300 g), dried apricots (300 g), peeled walnuts (300 g) and honey (300 g).
2. Pass the resulting mass through a meat grinder.
3. Take up to 2 tsp daily.

Cough medicine

1. Boil raisins (0.5 cups) in water (1 cup), add onion juice (1 tbsp. Spoon).
2. Take 20 minutes before eating a third of a glass up to 3 times a day.

Raisins in cosmetology

Raisins are sometimes used in home cosmetology. The beneficial properties of dried grapes will have a beneficial effect on the appearance, rejuvenate and improve the skin of the face, as well as strengthen the hair and improve its structure. On the basis of raisins it is possible to produce various nourishing masks for both face and hair.

Harm and contraindications

Dried grapes, like any other product containing highly concentrated active substances, have contraindications. It should not be used:

• with diabetes;
• increased acidity of the stomach;
• stomach ulcer;
• obesity;
• tuberculosis.

Another negative point is the presence of seeds. With insufficient chewing, they can provoke the occurrence of appendicitis. In addition, they have a negative effect on tooth enamel. Bacteria that multiply in places of accumulation of delayed pieces of seeds in the mouth can harm the mucous membrane of the internal organs. This in turn can lead to gastritis or ulcers.

How to choose and store raisins

To choose a quality product, you should pay attention to some points:

1. It should have a matte brown or light brown color.
2. It is better to choose elastic berries on which there is no damage.
3. Too dry or wet raisins should not be taken.
4. A quality product has a sweet taste without the taste of acid or frying.
5. In places that are located close to the road or to the parking lot, buying raisins is not recommended.
6. It is also worth checking the product expiration date and packaging integrity.

It is recommended to sort out purchased raisins, sort berries from garbage. You can store it using the following methods:

1. Pour raisins into a bag of linen, tie and place in a cool, dry place.
2. Pour dried grapes into a glass jar, cover with paper and tie the neck with a thread. Store at low humidity and temperatures up to + 10 ° C.
3. Pour raisins into a plastic container, close tightly and place in the refrigerator.

It is recommended to periodically sort out the stocks, make sure that insects are not wound up in the raisins, and also discard rotten berries.

How to make raisins at home

The easiest way to make raisins at home is to dry the grapes with an electric dryer. To do this, you need:

1. Select grapes, remove damaged and rotten berries.
2. The clusters are divided into small brushes.
3. Boil water, salt and place the brushes there for 5-7 seconds. After that, cool with cool water.
4. Place the brushes on pallets and install in the electric dryer.
5. Drying mode - about 50 ° C.
6. From time to time, change the pallets, this will contribute to a more uniform drying of the berries.

For overripe grapes, another method is suitable:

1. Separate the grapes from the bunches, rinse, pierce each berry with a toothpick.
2. Let them dry on a towel.
3. Place the grapes on pallets and place in the dryer.
4. Drying temperature should be around 55 ° C.
5. Replace pallets every 60 minutes.
6. After 7 hours, allow the appliance to cool.
7. Repeat the procedure 1-2 times until ready.

Zest should be soft, resilient, not secrete juice.

How to eat raisins

Raisins can be used as part of various dishes, or separately from them. Before use, it must be stoned, especially if the product is intended for children. It is also important to comply with the intake of dried grapes.

How much can you eat per day

The daily consumption rate of raisins is up to 100 g. Raisins contain a large amount of natural sugars, so it is recommended to reduce the amount of sweets.

Can I eat at night and on an empty stomach

Raisins improve sleep, so you can eat it before the lights out. But it is not recommended to do this if the dream is already normal. Raisins are also useful if consumed on an empty stomach. It stimulates the digestive tract, relieves toxins and provides satiety.

Can raisins be in the post

Dried fruits and berries are allowed during the fasting period.

Do I need to wash raisins before eating?

Raisins must be washed before use. In addition, it is recommended to soak it in hot water.

What can be cooked from raisins: recipes

A variety of varieties of raisins allows you to use it as part of various dishes. Small, seedless berries are often found in sweet culinary products, in chocolate bars and in sweets. Medium-sized raisins with stones are used to make compotes, and large, as a rule, light berries are considered favorites of oriental cuisine.

How to cook compote

Ingredients:

• Raisins - 300 g.
• Mineral water - 2.5 liters.
• Sugar - to taste.

How to cook:

1. Rinse thoroughly.
2. Place the dried grapes in a pan, sprinkle it with sugar and pour water.
3. Put on fire. After boiling, reduce the heat, cover the pan with a lid and cook for 30 minutes.

How to make wine

Ingredients:

• Raisins - 2 kg.
• Water - 5 l.
• Sugar - 400 g.
• Beer - 500 ml.

How to cook:

1. Pour raisins into a fermentation tank and add water. Wear a glove or a water seal and place in a warm place for 2 weeks. If heavy foam occurs, mix the wort 4 times per day.
2. After fermentation is complete, remove the must from the sediment and transfer it to an additional container.
3. Add beer, sugar and stir to raisins. Put in a cool place for 7 days.
4. Strain the wine using a tube or gauze.

Is it possible to give raisins to animals

It is forbidden to give raisins to dogs, since it contains substances that have a destructive effect on dog kidneys. For the same reason, dried grapes should not be given to cats.

Interesting Raisin Facts

1. One of the largest suppliers of raisins is the state of California. At the same time, the commercial potential of this region was discovered by accident. In 1873, in the regions where grapes were actively grown, monstrous heat was observed, so fresh grapes turned into shriveled, ugly berries that did not attract buyers. An entrepreneurial San Francisco salesperson began touting shriveled grapes as a "Peruvian delicacy." This attracted a lot of attention, and thus there was a great demand for raisins.
2. In 1876, Scottish immigrant William Thompson was able to grow a seedless grape variety. Many raisin producers are still grateful for this discovery.
3. In ancient Rome, one slave could be exchanged for two banks with raisins.
4. To produce 1 ton of raisins will require about 4 tons of grapes.
5. It is believed that the first to start cultivating grapes were Armenians and Phoenicians.
6. In 1948, during the siege of West Berlin, food was supplied only by air. One American pilot decided before parachuting to the residents to drop bags containing sweets before boarding. Later, other pilots began to do this, they also dumped various sweets, which were bought with money donated by residents of the United Kingdom. In these bags, as a rule, were chocolate products, chewing gum, as well as raisins. It is also interesting that the aircraft that delivered this cargo, over time, acquired the name - "raisin bombers."

Raisin photo