Loading...

Natural Cure

Raisins - Nature's Powerhouse of Nutrients & Energy

If we were to think of a food which is nature’s storehouse of energy, nutrients, anti-oxidants and which is easy to store and super convenient to carry - what could we think of? Raisins of course!

Raisins or the humble ‘Kishmish’ as it is also called in our country, needs no introduction. It has always found its way into our food either as a raw topping or as a dry snack. It is also one of the most easily available items at grocery stores.

Let us know more about raisins.

WHAT ARE RAISINS

Several suitable varieties of grapes are sun-dried till they attain their distinct small and wrinkled texture. The flavour of a raisin is similar to the grapes from which it was made. This is also a great way of enjoying grapes when they are not in season.

Raisins or kishmish is literally a ‘dried fruit’. On drying a fruit, many nutrients become concentrated in it. For eg. An ounce of raisins contains 6% potassium and 0.5 mg iron, as against 5% and 0.3 mg for the same amount of grapes.

Because of the lower moisture in raisins, it stays wholesome with a long shelf life, running into months.

Image credit: Photo by Uschi Dugulin via pixabay.com

TYPES OF RAISINS

Raisins or kishmish, are largely grown in three variants; all of them being similar in nature and nutrients to each other.

The dark brown/ black raisins are also referred to as ‘Munakka’, are usually sun-dried to get their colour.

The yellow/ golden coloured raisins, are smaller in size and usually have tiny seeds or are seedless. These are dehydrated for shorter periods than their darker counterparts.

The green raisins are usually shade dried and hence it’s the lighter colour.

We can enjoy all or any variety of kishmish; depending on whatever is locally and easily available.

A WHOLESOME FOOD

Raisin is a wholesome food that contains elements such as natural sugars, folic and pantothenic acid, minerals such as potassium, calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, soluble and insoluble fibre, iron, copper and zinc. It is also packed with anti-oxidants which strengthen the immunity.

It is one of the most alkaline foods available and helps maintain the acid-alkaline balance in the body. Our body functions best when the pH of its blood is slightly alkaline, around 7.36 to 7.42.

To know more, read the Wellcure blog – 'Do you know about the body’s acid-alkaline balance?

RAISINS – THE HANDY COMPANION

  • The natural sweetness of raisins is so satiable that it can be aptly called as ‘nature’s candy’ and can often replace the market bought candies & lollies for kids, easily!
  • It’s naturally sweet taste is relished by children and makes a great snack for kids. Besides they are easily liked by even fussy eaters or ones who usually don’t prefer sweet foods.
  • Being alkaline food, raisins are a great way to boost up kids immunity. Making your kids have a few soaked raisins every morning when they wake up is a great start to their day.
  • For the same reason, patients recovering from illness should also include raisins in their food routine. Additionally, being high in natural sugars, they give a quick boost of energy that is needed during illness and to recuperate from it.
  • Raisins could make great natural energy bars!! It’s a good idea to have a handful of raisins to charge up after performing strenuous activities like workouts, exercise or play.
  • Raisins being rich in minerals like iron, magnesium, calcium, and vitamins, can greatly benefit women in pregnancy and postnatal care. Having a few raisins daily will help in supplementing the essential nutrients required by the mother and the baby.
  • Being a good source of iron, it is very beneficial in anaemia.
  • Raisins are fibre rich and hence they help in clearing the bowels. For regular bowel movement or in case of constipation, one should include/increase the intake of fibre rich foods. Having a few soaked raisins every morning can relieve constipation.
  • The fibre in raisins helps keep stomach filled for longer. So the next time you have an urge to snack, skip the processed snacks and reach for healthy snacking items such as raisins. The ease of storing and carrying this versatile dry-fruit leaves no reason to miss it! So keep them readily available at workstations, study table or simply snuck them in the bags!

Do remember that when it comes to food, the key lies in moderation. Nature has given us a lot of variety in foods, so try to include a variety of whole, local, seasonal, fresh, raw foods in your diet. You can definitely enjoy a handful of raisins every day but don’t overindulge.

SOAKED RAISINS

Even though we can always munch raisins just as they are – dry and raw, it is great to consume them soaked too, whenever possible. Soaking increases the amount of nutrients that are absorbed by the body. Soaking raisins at night and eating them in the morning on an empty stomach is a great way to enjoy their health benefits.

TIPS TO TAKE CARE

  • Raisins, like other fruits and dry-fruits, should be had alone and not mixed with other food groups like vegetables, grains, pulses, nuts and seeds, etc. The common practice of adding raisins to dairy-based desserts or savoury items should be preferably avoided.
  • Ensure that the raisins are naturally dried for great quality and natural goodness. These days many raisins produces are being commercially oven dried or even machine dried.
  • Check for raisins containing Sulphites (Sulphur dioxide); especially the golden coloured raisins; which is commonly used to preserve dried fruits. People with asthma or sulphite sensitivity should particularly avoid this.
  • While buying raisins, we should keep in mind that naturally readied raisins are not very shiny and smooth; instead, they are slightly rugged and firm; and hence select accordingly. Smooth and shiny looking raisins are often coated with oil for longer shelf life. Check the label to make sure the raisins are natural without additives.
  • The naturally produced raisins may not last as long as the ones with preservatives. So we could choose to buy them in small batches.
  • In case naturally produced raisins are bought in a large quantity and need to be stored longer, they can be refrigerated in moderate temperature and be consumed.

Make your own raisins!

Save money and be assured of the quality when you make your own raisins at home. It requires very minimal effort.

  • Buy grapes when they are in season
  • Wash them and wipe them clean with a cotton napkin
  • Spread them out on a plate, cover with a muslin cloth (to keep out ants and flies) and keep in the sunlight.
  • Ensure temperature is above 24 or 25 degrees Celsius.
  • If it's cooler or foggy at dawn or dusk, bring them into the house every evening and place it back every morning
  • The grapes will start shrivelling and turn darker.
  • It may take 5 days to a week from them to be completely dehydrated depending on the temperature.
  • Pack them in airtight sealed bags and keep in the fridge.

Note: Since they do not have preservatives, they may not last longer than 5 months or so.

These raisins will be darker and chewier than store bought ones since they are natural without any sulphite preservatives.

Size, shape and colour do not matter when it comes to this wellness packed dried fruit. It is so easy to pack and take these little ones along anytime and to any place, that it is always possible to keep raising the health with ‘raisins’.

Title Image credit: Author Tafilah Yusof/ feelphotoz via pixabay.com

Recommended Reading:-

1. http://www.berkeleywellness.com/healthy-eating/food/article/raisins-concentrated-source-nutrients

2. https://www.livestrong.com/article/497527-high-alkaline-low-oxalate-foods/

3. http://www.planet-science.com/categories/under-11s/our-world/2012/05/make-your-own-raisins.aspx



Disclaimer: The health journeys, blogs, videos and all other content on Wellcure is for educational purposes only and is not to be considered a ‘medical advice’ ‘prescription’ or a ‘cure’ for diseases. Any specific changes by users, in medication, food & lifestyle, must be done under the guidance of licensed health practitioners. The views expressed by the users are their personal views and Wellcure claims no responsibility for them.

Related Post

2020-08-19 04:20:00

What Is The Best Salt ...

Do you know how much salt you are consuming? Pickle, papads,...

Read

2022-06-01 05:40:00

Do You 'Really' Need D...

Most of us have grown up consuming dairy in some form or the...

Read

2020-10-29 05:20:00

Food Combinations For ...

Ever felt bloated and uncomfortable after a meal? Wonder why...

Read

2020-05-22 08:50:00

Best Natural Foods For...

Nature has already provided foods intended to keep us in per...

Read

2020-08-10 03:05:00

This is Why You Should...

Raw food is food cooked by the Sun and not by us! Eating fru...

Read

2020-06-03 05:55:00

Fruits

Which is the most important food you can eat when you are si...

Read

2020-06-29 10:00:00

Do You Need To Eat Oil...

Are refined oils like sunflower, rice bran oils etc actually...

Read

2020-07-20 12:30:00

Do You Know White Suga...

Our body needs sugar to fuel us but the processed white suga...

Read

2021-01-04 05:30:00

Are You Over-eating Gr...

Are you having grains three times a day – Breakfast, l...

Read

2019-08-13 05:45:00

Are You Eating Water O...

Water constituents 70% of our body. Having a diet high in wa...

Read

2019-07-11 09:45:00

Do You Love Non-veg Fo...

There is a lot of confusion about non vegetarian food ; whet...

Read

2021-01-05 05:25:00

Do You Know The Why & ...

Sprouts are alive, whole, living foods. Easy to digest and b...

Read

2019-01-30 02:50:00

White sugar – A quic...

Everyone takes sugar in their tea, milk, biscuits, dessert, ...

Read

2019-07-15 04:20:00

Jaggery – A quick ro...

Jaggery is commonly recommended as a healthy alternative to ...

Read

2019-07-19 03:50:00

Curious about millets?...

Are you wondering what all the recent buzz about millets is ...

Read

2020-07-22 04:15:00

Healthy and Fun Snacki...

Snacking is a very emotional habit of our living and eating....

Read

2020-07-24 06:35:00

Choose The Best Salt F...

Sendha namak, sea salt, kala namak, kosher salt, low sodium ...

Read

2021-01-12 05:20:00

How To Buy The Best Fr...

I began shopping for fruits and veggies for the house only a...

Read

2020-10-09 03:05:00

How to Simplify Eating...

Yes, we all know salads are good for health. However well in...

Read

2019-08-11 02:30:00

Your guide to buying a...

Greens are bursting with nutrition. Add greens to your every...

Read

2020-10-14 05:40:00

How To Add A Variety L...

Love ‘em or hate ‘em, you know they are wonderfu...

Read

2020-07-29 04:15:00

The Nutty Dilemma - Ho...

Are you nuts about nuts? Love munching on them but not sure ...

Read

2020-06-08 12:10:00

4 Ways To Make Your Ch...

Does your child turn up his nose at the sight of greens? Are...

Read

2020-08-24 04:25:00

How To Select Fruits, ...

Though there is a lot of food produce available to us at man...

Read

2020-09-05 04:50:00

This is How Much Fruit...

As per the circadian rhythm of the body, having fruits till ...

Read

2020-07-10 03:40:00

How Aesthetics of Food...

A transition of any kind is not easy and when it comes to ch...

Read

2020-09-22 04:40:00

How To Get The Best Fr...

Pulses and beans form a significant portion of plant-based n...

Read

2019-07-16 03:35:00

Chop, steam, cook oil ...

Whether you are looking to save some money, or improve your ...

Read

2019-02-23 12:45:00

'Green your life' prog...

Join our 'Green your life' program - Let us help you...

Read

2019-02-25 07:55:00

Introduction to greens...

Introduction to greens The edible leaves of various plant...

Read

2019-02-26 05:15:00

Your guide to buying, ...

Your guide to buying, storing and preparing greens The tr...

Read

2020-11-25 04:25:00

For decades, “fat” was the most shunned word in ...

Read

2020-11-09 05:05:00

Microgreens - Add thes...

What are microgreens? Microgreens, tiny versions of leafy...

Read

2019-08-18 04:00:00

Processed foods – Ar...

We all know that processed foods are not good for us. Howeve...

Read

2020-09-17 04:55:00

Raisins - Nature's Pow...

If we were to think of a food which is nature"s storehouse o...

Read

2019-08-21 04:25:00

Salt can be addictive

USE LESS SALT; BE KIND TO YOURSELF. What does excess sa...

Read

2019-06-19 03:45:00

Roots: Our Saviour Fro...

Roots have been part of our ancient diet since a very long t...

Read

2019-08-29 04:45:00

Eat RAW food to HEAL!

Are we DESIGNED to eat raw LIVING FOOD? I mean, think abo...

Read

2019-10-04 04:01:00

Seeds – The Original...

They are tiny, sometimes even smaller than a fingernail, but...

Read

2019-10-10 07:56:00

Seeds - Interesting Wa...

In Part 1 of our blog on seeds, you learnt about what are se...

Read

2019-10-18 04:30:00

आहार

Read

2019-10-01 04:23:00

Vegetable Juices - A N...

Recently, juicing has gained increased attention. For many o...

Read

2019-11-18 11:32:00

Boost your health with...

Oranges, lemon, grapes! It is the time of the year where we ...

Read

2019-11-05 06:36:00

30 Ways to Revamp Your...

In this article, we discuss the healthy alternatives that yo...

Read

2019-12-06 04:30:00

Eating raw in the wint...

So you spent the summer eating a high raw diet and feel pret...

Read

2019-12-09 04:22:00

All about Tea

In most households, drinking tea first thing in the morning ...

Read

2020-01-24 05:11:00

The basic rhythm of ou...

Hormones, yes hormones we always blame on it. That one thing...

Read

2020-01-20 05:01:00

To Gluten or Not?

The number of gluten-free products is steadily increasing in...

Read

2020-02-12 04:34:00

Water – Alkalize and...

We all consume water but without paying a conscious attentio...

Read

2020-04-24 06:54:00

De-JUNK the kids (Onli...

What kids eat today determines their tomorrow Learn to ma...

Read

2020-05-01 06:14:00

BEAT THE HEAT NATURALL...

Summer is different this year, isn"t it? We all are staying ...

Read

2021-01-12 06:30:00

Healthy Vegan Indian C...

Did you know that humans are closest to frugivores? Our natu...

Read

2020-05-27 04:52:00

Is Your Cookware Toxic...

We choose our food carefully to stay healthy but do we give ...

Read

2020-06-05 10:40:00

3 GOOD REASONS TO QUIT...

Despite so much scientific evidence and globally acknowledge...

Read

2020-06-09 06:23:00

Mono-Fruit Breakfast |...

Eating one fruit for breakfast, is a perfect way to start yo...

Read

2020-06-15 04:26:00

COCONUT - THE WONDER F...

Call it a nut, or a fruit, coconut is one of the most versat...

Read

2020-09-24 05:05:00

Ways To Prevent Obesit...

India is home to about 97,700 children with type 1 diabet...

Read

2021-02-05 05:54:01

Fibromyalgia - Fibromy...

FIBROMYALGIA If you are someone feeling body pain all the...

Read

2021-02-06 11:08:52

How to cure Psoriasis ...

Psoriasis – everyone says that it is uncurable. But I ...

Read

2021-02-08 13:19:08

Cure Diabetes Naturall...

It is said that once you have diabetes it is for a lifetime,...

Read

2021-02-10 04:19:00

This is Why Plant-Base...

Have you been skeptical about switching to a plant-based die...

Read

2021-09-02 08:32:00

7 Reasons Why You Shou...

Universally, eggs are one of the world"s most consumed break...

Read

2021-10-13 09:54:00

This Karvachauth, Fast...

The much-awaited, much celebrated day is almost here. Every ...

Read

2022-01-07 08:30:00

Organic Fruits & Veggi...

100% Organic Foods Available At The Price Of Non-Organic Foo...

Read

2022-10-08 11:10:00

Free Masterclass! Heal...

Learn All About Millets And How To Use Them In Daily Cooking...

Read

2021-12-21 12:52:00

Free Healthy Cooking M...

Make Your Baking Healthier & Tastier No Gluten | No Dair...

Read

2022-04-22 05:28:00

The Best Thing You Can...

There"s only one place to be - our dear Earth. And there"s o...

Read

2022-07-04 11:52:00

Do you need curd for p...

Curd has long been a staple in the Indian diet. Whether it i...

Read

2022-08-16 14:49:00

Is Fish Good For Healt...

India is blessed with an extensive shoreline. Seafood has be...

Read

2022-09-07 06:37:00

Untold Truths About A2...

There's a lot of talk around A2 milk nowadays. Are these...

Read

2022-11-04 11:00:00

Best Foods To Boost Yo...

Our Brain is what makes us human. We are the most evolved sp...

Read

2023-02-06 08:06:00

Cook With Plant-based ...

Priya Vijan, the only Plant-based & Vegan chef in MasterChef...

Read

2023-03-22 11:31:00

Free Download! Navratr...

🎉 ₹199/- FREE DOWNLOAD! Use Code WELLCURE100 Ce...

Read
Scan QR code to download Wellcure App
Wellcure
'Come-In-Unity' Plan