Dried fruits and nuts are fundamental foods that are consumed all over the world because of their unique taste and many health-related properties. They have proven to be beneficial for consumption as they can aid the prevention of many metabolic conditions such as type 2 diabetes, obesity, higher LDL cholesterol and heart diseases.
Below we have mentioned some of the dried fruits and nuts along with their benefits.
Dried Apricots
Dried apricots are very nutritious and tasty. They are loaded with vitamin A which keeps the immune system in check. They also have a high content of vitamin C which helps attain healthy skin, reducing wrinkles and fine lines as well as replacing dead skin cells which, in turn, give smooth and glowy skin.
Moreover, dried apricots are beneficial for preventing the loss of sight in elderly people as they help strengthen the optic nerve. What’s more, these apricots are rich in potassium which aids nerve signaling and muscle contractions.
Including potassium-rich foods, like dried apricots, in your diet helps control blood pressure and reduces the risk of stroke.
Almonds
Almonds are known as the king of tree nuts. They are rich in nutrients like fiber, magnesium, vitamin E, healthy fatty acids and proteins. These nuts are used to produce almond oil, almond milk, butter and flour.
Almonds are high in antioxidants which makes them anti-inflammatory, they can help prevent diseases like cancer, tumors and heart-related diseases.
They are among the best sources of Vit E which, if eaten with moderation, can help fight several autoimmune diseases.
Almonds can be an effective source of food for weight loss as they are loaded with fiber which keeps the body energized for a longer period of time.
Raisins
Raisins are basically dried grapes. They are full of iron, calcium, fiber and have high sugar levels which makes them a healthy substitute for sugary sweets and candies.
Fibers in raisins help relieve constipation. It also aids in maintaining a healthy cholesterol level.
Raisins are iron-rich food which helps regulate hemoglobin levels in your body and prevent anemia. Iron is important for developing red blood cells and helps the cells to carry oxygen to your body.
Raisins are helpful for people with osteoporosis — calcium present in raisins helps to build stronger bones and protects your teeth.
Raisins contain enough sugar to give you loads of energy and are an amazing snack for a healthy diet.
Walnuts
Walnuts have been known as the ‘royal acorns’ for centuries. Walnuts are an ultimate source of solid fats, fiber, minerals and nutrients — and that is only the start of how they may support your wellbeing.
Walnuts are rich in healthy microbiota (gut microbes) that can promote your gut health; without these health-promoting bacteria the risk of obesity and heart diseases gets higher. They are also rich in protein and fiber which helps you stay full and promotes your digestion.
Walnuts have the highest rate of antioxidants present in any nut. Study conducted by WebMD has shown that including walnuts in your diet can lower your cholesterol level. Walnuts are also helpful to control the inflammations that can cause heart attacks or blood clots.
The polyphenols found in walnuts can help minimize your risk of tumors or cancers, including prostate, breast and rectal cancers. However, there haven’t been many studies to confirm this.
Dried Dates
Dates are known to be the oldest cultivated form of fruits. Their dried form — also known as ‘Chhuara’ in Urdu — is produced and consumed for over a period of 6000 years. They are known to be the most healthy and most delicious fruits.
Dried dates are also being consumed as a solution for delayed labor, detoxifying the body and preventing inflammation.
Dates are full of fiber like many other nuts and dried fruits, which is beneficial for preventing constipation and lowering blood sugar levels.
Dried dates are high in calcium which assists in bone health and stronger teeth. A handful amount of dates can prevent osteoporosis and diseases like arthritis.
It is easier to find dates in their dried form but as they are high in calories having them in moderation can prove to be beneficial for you in many ways.
