All about raisins

guido · Site Admin Joined: Oct 18, 2004 Posts: 377 Location: Italy

Raisins are a good source of energy and sustain blood sugar levels longer than other energy foods. One-fourth cup of raisins provides only 108.75 calories without the fat. Munching on a handful of raisins will keep your tummy stable longer than if you munch on a bag of chips.

Research sponsored by the World Health Organization shows that raisins are rich in boron, which prevents bone-related diseases such as osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis and osteoporosis; aids in metabolizing calcium, copper and nitrogen; and is essential in brain function and cognitive performance. Because of their potassium content, raisins curb blood pressure, heart disease and certain types of cancer.

Adults who ate raisins before and during intense workouts experienced lower or no DNA damage, a result of the antioxidants in raisins doing their work. Athletes who ate about a cup of raisins before and during a triathlon were better protected from oxidative damage as measured in the urine than those who consumed a glucose drink of equivalent caloric value.

The study sponsored by the California Raisin Marketing Board found that the inulin in raisins, ferments in the colon, which promote healthy colon cell growth and prevent the growth of abnormal cells that may lead to disease.

Raisins provide a delicate sweetness to certain dishes. Dark seedless raisins have deep color and flavor, while golden seedless are pale and tangy.

Even if you’re not a cooking aficionado, or if you’re always on the go, raisins can still get you going the whole day. Raisins can be quickly added to homemade granola or sprinkled over hot or cold breakfast cereal. Soaked with other fruits in water softens raisins and results in a cool fruit compote that can be eaten by itself, mixed with plain yogurt, or used as a sauce for grilled poultry.

If you have more time, raisins can be mixed with nuts and added to bread, muffins and cookies. It is also an excellent stuffing to grilled or baked poultry.
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paulamathers · Posted: Fri Sep 15, 2006 1:19 pm Post subject:

my daughters always eating raisens as a snack, i leave her to it and dont usually eat them solely because i buy them for her. think i will now - she wont be impressed! Very Happy