14 Magical Health Benefits of Raisins

The health benefits of raisins include improved digestion, bone health, iron levels, acidosis, fever, and sexual dysfunction. They have also been known for aiding in a healthy weight gain, as well as for their positive impact on eyes, teeth, and hair...

Benefits of Raisins - Let’s take a look at the powerful health benefits of raisins below.

Fiber-Rich & Act as a Laxative

Raisins have an abundant supply of fiber in them, which helps to absorb the natural fluids present in the body. This type of fiber is considered insoluble fiber because it takes in water to gain volume. This adds bulk to the food moving through the intestinal tract, making for more regular bowel movements, and ultimately helps give relief from constipation.

A study in the Journal of Medicinal Food, confirms that adding just two servings of raisins per day – a relatively small dietary change, as they mention can improve colon function and may decrease the risk of colon cancer.

Relieves Bloating

The fiber in raisins helps remove toxins and harmful materials from the digestive tract. A healthy digestive tract can prevent intestinal diseases, bacterial growth, and discomfort from bloating.

Prevent Acidity

Raisins are rich in potassium and magnesium, which are a natural remedy for acidosis. These minerals are two of the most common components of antacids because they are considered basic on the pH scale.

Rich in Iron

Raisins contain a considerable amount of iron, which directly helps against anemia. It also contains many members of the vitamin B complex that are essential for the formation of new blood. The high copper content also helps in the production of red blood cells.

Promote Dental & Oral Health

Raisins are rich in calcium, which strengthens and helps to remineralize tooth enamel. Further, boron present in these dried fruits helps curb the growth of oral germs. Oleanolic acid, one of the phytochemicals present in raisins, plays a crucial role in protecting your teeth against decay, cavities, and brittleness. As strange as it may sound, while eating the dried fruits, the longer they stick to your teeth, the better. This ensures an extended contact of oleanolic acid with the teeth.

Rich in Antioxidants

Raisins have high levels of antioxidants that include catechins and polyphenol IC phytonutrients. These antioxidants protect against the damage caused by free radicals, one of the primary underlying factors linked to the growth of cancer cells and other conditions such as macular degeneration. However, more scientific evidence is required to confirm these findings.

Further, the fiber content helps promote the removal of bile from the body, thus flushing out toxins.

Promote Bone Health

Calcium, the main element of our bones, is present in raisins. These dried fruits are one of the best sources of boron, a micronutrient (a nutrient required by the body in a very small amount). Boron is vital for the proper bone formation, and efficient absorption of calcium.

It is particularly helpful in preventing menopause induced osteoporosis in women and very beneficial for bones and joints. Potassium is another essential nutrient found in high levels, which can help strengthen bones and promote bone growth, thereby reducing the chances of osteoporosis.

Increase Fertility

Raisins have long been known to stimulate the libido and induce arousal, primarily due to the presence of an amino acid called L-arginine, which also helps reduce the symptoms of reduced sperm motility. This is confirmed in research performed on 180 patients suffering from the condition, also known as asthenospermia.

Improve Skin Health

Antioxidants and vitamin C in raisins help keep the skin radiant, taut, and youthful. Eating them can help prevent conditions like psoriasis and acne as they have strong germicidal properties.

Promote Hair Health

Daily consumption of raisins helps promote shiny and thick hair as the vitamin C content prevents cell damage. Their anti-inflammatory properties help prevent scalp irritation, dandruff, and flakiness

Promote Good Sleep

Iron deficiency anemia can be a cause for your insomnia, and therefore, intake of iron-rich raisins can help ensure a good night’s sleep.

Promote Weight Gain

Raisins can help gain weight, healthily. They form an ideal part of a diet for athletes or bodybuilders who need a powerful boost of energy, or for those who want to put on weight without accumulating unhealthy amounts of cholesterol.

Promote Kidney Health

Potassium in raisins can help prevent the formation and reoccurrence of kidney stones.

Manage Diabetes

The connection between raisins and blood glucose levels has been researched. Raisins have been linked to lower the postprandial insulin response, which means they can stabilize insulin spikes or plunges after a meal.