Raisins Benefits: The Tiny Superfood for Good Health

Raisins are more than dried grapes; they are adorable tiny balls of delight with a wealth of health advantages.
Kanchan Dulhani
26 Sep, 2023
15 min read

Who said being healthy had to be monotonous? Most of us find ourselves tempted by high-sugar foods like cookies, candies, a fun-size ice cream, or a chocolate bar among our regular sugar cravings, which we are all too acquainted with. But here’s a wholesome twist – ever thought of reaching for a handful of naturally sweet raisins?

Mother Nature has provided us with so many delicious, healthy, and nourishing superfoods that we may enjoy at any time, guilt-free. Raisins, known as kishmish, are a nature’s candy packed with minerals, nutrients, and vitamins. They are more than dried grapes; they are adorable tiny balls of delight with a wealth of health advantages.

So, fasten your seatbelt and get ready to learn how these little jewels may improve your health.

What are Raisins?

Raisins are sun-dried or dehydrated to eliminate the water content and leave behind concentrated natural sugars. They have a range of colours, such as golden, black, and brown, each with a unique flavour profile and culinary uses.

Their texture contrasts the tongue with a combination of chewiness and a faint wrinkled sharpness. The taste is a harmonious blend of natural sugars, delivering a burst of energy and satisfaction. The consumption of raisins has a lengthy history that dates back to prehistoric times and has been a staple in many civilizations worldwide.

Nutrient Profile of Raisins

Even though raisins are tiny and discreet dried grapes, they have an excellent nutritious profile. A 100 gm of raisins contains [1]

Carbohydrate 80 g
Protein 3.28 g
Fibre 3.3 g
Fat 0.2 g
Potassium 746 mg
Calcium 64 mg
Magnesium 35 mg
Phosphorus 101 mg
Iron 0.98 mg
Zinc 0.37 mg
Copper 0.228 mg

Health Benefits of Raisin

Raisins benefits infographic

1. Raisins for Healthy Digestion

A constipated stomach is a hell hole for a healthy body. That’s why you must always keep the digestion passage clear; kishmish can help you!

Raisins are loaded with insoluble dietary fibres, making them a natural laxative that improves bowel movement and ensures smooth elimination of stool from our system [2]. Thus, this sweet treat helps regulate bowel movements and keep your tummy happy.

Say goodbye to constipation, and hello to smooth sailing!

Perhaps you sometimes find it challenging to create a balanced meal plan and constantly seek new methods to improve your fibre consumption. You’re not sure who to consult, though. Allow us to make it easy.

The My Meal Plan test, developed by Aashirvaad Atta with Multigrains and a team of qualified nutritionists, identifies your daily fibre and provides a detailed meal plan that complies with the recommended consumption. This suggests that you are only one click away from reaching your goal of maintaining a balanced diet.

2. Kishmish for Weight Loss

Although losing weight might be difficult, a diet high in fibre may make the journey easier. Considering that kishmish may aid in weight reduction, including them in your meals may be wise. These unassuming dried fruits possess a unique ability to create a feeling of fullness and reduce hunger pangs.

When you consume raisins, they can impact the release of gut hormones that regulate your appetite [3]. This leads to increased satisfaction and reduced energy intake, ultimately aiding in weight management.

As a result, eating raisins may decrease the absorption of complex carbs, which may assist in both maintaining and promoting weight reduction. Therefore, including kishmish in your weight-loss meal may aid in your goal of trimming a few inches off your waistline.

3. Raisins for Energy Boost

Forget about reaching for that cup of coffee or energy drink when you need a pick-me-up. Raisins are nature’s very own energy booster. These little munchkins provide instant energy as they are rich in natural sugar.

Fructose and glucose in raisins is the reason behind it [4]. Try a handful of kishmish the next time you feel tired. Your body will thank you!

4. Raisins for Bone Strength

Calcium is essential because it’s a major building block for bones. It helps in mineralization, like giving your bones a sturdy framework. Bones that don’t get enough calcium may weaken and become more fragile.

You can naturally and deliciously increase your daily calcium intake by introducing kishmish into your diet [5]. So, grab a handful of raisins and take a tasty step toward better bone health!

5. Raisins for Haemoglobin Raise

If you’re struggling with low haemoglobin levels, kishmish are here to lend a helping hand. These little powerhouses contain iron, which is crucial for producing haemoglobin [6]. Your body’s cells receive oxygen via haemoglobin.

So, by eating some raisins, you’re enhancing your blood’s oxygen-carrying capacity. That is some delectable science, indeed!

6. Raisins for Heart Health

Raisins are rich in antioxidants, particularly a type called polyphenols. These antioxidants are like little superheroes that help fight inflammation and oxidative stress in your body [7]. This is important for your heart because oxidative stress and inflammation can harm your blood vessels and worsen heart disease.

You may add a natural supply of these heart-healthy antioxidants to your diet by incorporating raisins. They assist in maintaining the health of your blood vessels, thus lowering your chance of heart issues.

Also, dietary fiber in raisins benefits your heart as well. Fibre can help reduce bad cholesterol levels, another important factor in maintaining heart health.

7. Raisins for Skin Glow

Who needs pricey skincare when you’ve got raisins? Antioxidants and vitamins in these tiny jewels may work wonders for your skin. Antioxidants protect your skin from harmful substances, making you seem younger. Vitamins help produce new skin cells, keeping you glowing. So, munch on raisins and let your skin shine without the fuss!

8. Raisins for Brain Function

You only need a handful of raisins to boost your brain. Raisins are a great source of antioxidants. It helps shield your brain cells from oxidative damage by free radicals.

They also include natural sugars, which serve as your brain’s rapid fuel supply. Therefore, snack on some raisins the next time you need to increase your ability to concentrate or think clearly.

9. Raisin for Better Sleep

Lack of restful sleep may severely impact your mental and physical health for various reasons. And what could be better than popping a tasty treat to ease your sleep problems? Because raisins contain iron, a necessary component, they have been proven particularly helpful in treating insomnia.

Iron is a crucial mineral that, as we all know, not only promotes the creation of haemoglobin but also enhances metabolism, transports oxygen, fortifies immunity, and thus promotes sounder sleep.

How to Enjoy Raisins?

Raisins can be a versatile and tasty addition to your meals. It helps bring a hint of sweetness and a dose of health benefits to your diet. Go ahead and check creative ways to incorporate raisins into your diet.

  • Raw: Why not snack on them raw? It is the easiest and quickest way to consume raisins. Simply put them into your mouth to embark on a flavour trip led by their chewy texture and inherent sweetness. It’s like a brief holiday for your taste senses.
  • Rice and More: Mix raisins into rice dishes, like pilaffs or stir-fries, for an unexpected twist.
  • Salad: For those looking to add a touch of sweetness to their greens, sprinkle a handful of raisins over salads. They provide a delicious flavour explosion and a fun texture contrast. Who knew salads could be so exciting?
  • Flavourings: If you’re more of a breakfast person, mix raisins into your oatmeal or cereal. It’s like having a treasure hunt every morning, searching for those delicious raisins hidden among the grains. Plus, it adds a natural sweetness without the need for additional sugar. Talk about a win-win!
  • Baking: Lastly, raisins are not just for snacking or breakfast. They also work wonders in baking. You can incorporate these little guys into your favourite recipes, from cookies to bread. Just imagine biting into warm, freshly baked cinnamon raisin bread. Can you say heaven?

Cut Short, raisins are a delightful, nutrient-rich addition to any diet. These naturally dried grapes continue to solidify their reputation as a valued and treasured snack because of their historical significance, culinary variety, and health advantages.

Including raisins in a balanced diet will undoubtedly aid in promoting a healthy lifestyle. However, the key to eating anything is moderation. So the next time you need to fulfil a sweet tooth, think about having some raisins. Your body will gain from the beneficial impacts of raisins.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Are raisins suitable for savoury dishes?

Absolutely! Raisins are an excellent complement to salads, rice dishes, and meat stews due to their adaptability in sweet and savoury flavours.

2. Can people with diabetes consume raisins?

Raisins are high in fibre and naturally sweet, making them safe for diabetics, but moderation is crucial to avoiding a blood sugar increase.

3. When is the ideal time to consume raisins?

The optimum time to consume raisins is on an empty stomach in the morning. It will give you a healthy start to the day by assisting you in fending off exhaustion and effectively regulating blood pressure. Soak them in water overnight and eat them the following day to lessen their propensity to produce heat in the body and to increase nutritional absorption.

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