Raisins: calories, useful properties and contraindications

Raisins are an extremely tasty and very popular type of dried fruit. This product is obtained by drying grapes in the sun or with special devices. Dried grapes have a lot of useful properties and have been used by people for about 5 thousand years. Their appearance is not particularly pleasing, but at the same time, raisins are considered one of the most useful snacks. In fact, it is a great alternative to candy, as the berries have a delightfully sweet taste. The product can be consumed both raw and used in baking or boiling. Dried fruits are used to make desserts, cookies, pies and puddings.

What are raisins and what are they made of?

Raisins are nothing but dried grapes. This is a well-known fact, but not everyone knows that only certain varieties of grapes can be dried. It is worth noting that dried fruits contain more nutrients than natural grapes. To understand what raisins are, it is necessary to understand in more detail how they are made. To begin with, it should be said that there are several methods of drying:

• in the sun;
• in the shade;
• using sulfur;
• Using heating systems.

Drying in the shade is optimal, as it allows the fruit to dry gradually, which contributes to the best quality of the product. Before drying, as a rule, the grapes should be sorted. The ripest bunches with juicy berries will be suitable. To do this you should equip a special room, which should be stretched a wire or fishing line, on which the grapes will be hung. Drying lasts about 2-3 months.

Types

1. Light. Green and light varieties of grapes are used, the product is made from small and large berries, cleaned of seeds. It is rich in carbohydrates, which explains its sweetness. It is used in cooking for baking, or in folk medicine as a remedy for constipation.
2. Dark. Produced from dark seedless varieties. Berries may vary in color from burgundy-black to purple-blue-black. The size of berries is small. The product is rich in antioxidants and has a very sweet, almost sugary taste. It has no seeds, so raisins are actively used in cooking.
3. Classic. The color of the berries is yellowish-olive-gray. The fruits have a medium size and contain a seed. Used for making sweet drinks.
4. Sweet. Large, fleshy berries have a sweet taste. Their skins vary in color from light brown to light amber, and pips are present in the flesh. Pips are used in baked goods. After heat treatment the berries lose neither their color nor their bright rich taste, which is why raisins are actively used in cooking.

What are the healthier raisins: dark or light?

Dark raisins are considered more useful than light ones. The reason is that the first kind more effectively helps to get rid of various ailments, since it contains more useful substances.

Composition and calories

In 100 g of the product contains:

• calories - 264 kcal;
• protein - 2.9 g;
• fats - 0.6 g;
• carbohydrates - 66 g.

The product is rich in dietary fiber and natural sugars. It contains B, H, and PP vitamins. In addition, the fruit contains a large concentration of potassium, as well as minerals - calcium, magnesium, iron and phosphorus.

What are the benefits of raisins

General benefits

1. Useful for digestion. Raisins have a rich supply of dietary fiber. They help regulate the concentration of natural fluids in the body. Insoluble fiber promotes better movement of food through the intestines, hence, it can help get rid of constipation. Including up to two small servings of raisins a day in your diet will be enough to greatly improve colon function and reduce your chances of developing colon cancer. In addition, dietary fiber helps remove toxins and harmful buildup from the digestive tract. It also helps protect against intestinal diseases, prevents the progression of bacterial multiplication, and relieves discomfort such as abdominal bloating. Studies show that some compounds in dried fruit can kill cancer-causing cells and prevent them from multiplying. In particular, phenolic compounds prevent the development of stomach cancer.
2. Regulates the acid-alkaline balance. Raisins contain potassium and magnesium, substances that help reduce the body's acidity. Acidosis (increased acidity) is a pathological metabolic condition that can lead to respiratory system malfunction. It also increases the risk of arthritis, heart disease, and even cancer. Potassium and magnesium are important components of antacids, they help neutralize the effects of acids, thereby preventing acidosis.
3. It is useful for anemia. Raisins are a rich source of copper and iron, substances that are involved in processes related to the formation of red blood cells. Regular consumption of this product helps to treat iron deficiency anemia and contributes to better blood clotting.
4. It strengthens dental and oral health. Dried fruits are rich in calcium. This mineral helps strengthen teeth and remineralize tooth enamel. The boron present in dried fruit helps inhibit the spread of germs in the mouth, which also helps strengthen the teeth. Regular consumption of dried berries suppresses the growth and spread of Streptococcus Mutans and Porphyromonas Gingivalis bacteria, which cause tooth decay and other dental problems.
5. Rich in antioxidants. Raisins are rich in catechins and polyphenolic phytonutrients. They protect the body from damage that is caused by free radicals. As a result, it suppresses the growth and spread of cancer cells.
6. Strengthens bone health. Calcium, the main element that supports bone health, is also present in fruits. It strengthens bones and promotes their normal development. Dried grape fruits are rich in boron. This trace element helps absorb calcium. The complex of all these substances can help prevent osteoporosis.
7. Natural aphrodisiac. Raisins are a product that can stimulate the sexual system. The amino acid arginine contained in the product is useful for maintaining a normal erection. Arginine is a natural aphrodisiac that activates sperm activity and increases the chances of conception. Consuming raisins on a daily basis also helps to increase sexual stamina.
8. Supports skin health. Raisins, being rich in antioxidants, help maintain healthy skin. The product contains resveratrol, a powerful antioxidant that slows down aging of skin cells. Raisins purify the blood and support the processes involved in the production of red blood cells, supplying more oxygen to the skin. These blood-cleansing properties of raisins make the skin clearer, more radiant and beautiful.
9. Maintains healthy hair. Raisins are a good source of iron, vitamin B complex, potassium and antioxidants that play an important role in maintaining healthy hair. Its regular consumption can help reduce hair loss and prevent baldness.
10. Promotes good sleep. Iron deficiency in the body can be the cause of insomnia. Consuming foods rich in iron, including raisins, will make up for this deficiency and ensure a good night's sleep.
11. Control cholesterol levels. To keep your heart healthy, you need to control your blood cholesterol levels. Raisins are a natural product that will help to do this. Elevated levels of low-density lipoprotein (LDL), a cholesterol that is considered bad, is a major cause of heart attacks. Raisins can lower LDL and triglyceride levels in the body and thereby help with heart health.
12. Fights hypertension. Raisins are rich in iron and antioxidants, which have a positive effect on the circulatory system and maintain normal blood pressure. In particular, high levels of potassium naturally relieve the pressure on vascular walls, while dietary fiber affects the biochemistry of blood vessels and reduces their stiffness, thereby relieving hypertension. High levels of potassium and no sodium also make raisins a great food for maintaining a healthy circulatory system.
13. Supports kidney health. Since dried fruits are rich in potassium, their regular use prevents the formation and recurrence of kidney stones.

For women

Women should definitely include raisins in their diet, as this tasty sweet dessert has a wide range of healing properties. Dried berries will help normalize the nervous system, alleviate stress and depression.

In addition, the product will improve sleep and get rid of insomnia, which often affects the fairer sex. Hormonal imbalance during menopause increases the risk of osteoporosis. To exclude this probability, it is necessary to take dried fruits on a regular basis. They will help to prevent calcium loss and enrich the body with phosphorus, thereby strengthening bone tissue and making it more mobile. The complex of minerals contained in dried grapes has a beneficial effect on the condition of teeth and hair.

It is important to note that not only men can face impotence. Women, too, are prone to similar ailments. With a deficit of vitamin A in the body, the risk of such pathologies increases greatly. Raisins will enrich the body with vitamin A, which takes part in the synthesis of progesterone, thereby helping to better control menstrual cycles.

For men

Vitamin A contained in raisins helps the male body to cope with problems of the sexual system. Lack of this vitamin increases the risk of testicular atrophy and provokes a decrease in the production of male hormones. Dried berries are rich in this vitamin, so they will help saturate the body with it and get rid of worries about male power. Raisins also help to increase desire and can even provoke arousal. Thanks to the presence in it of such an amino acid as arginine, there is a normalization of hormonal balance in the body, increases desire.

Erectile dysfunction is another problem in which it is recommended to use dried fruits. Berries are useful for men who have constant physical activity, because they contain carbohydrates and natural sugars that are an excellent source of energy. They also contribute to the effective absorption of many nutrients. This product is often included in the diet of bodybuilders and athletes because it can provide a quick energy boost.

When pregnant.

Raisins are allowed to be consumed during pregnancy. It is rich in nutrients that support the growth and development of the fetus in utero. Iron deficiency anemia is a frequent problem for women in the position. Raisins are rich in iron and vitamin C, substances that help reduce the risk of anemia. Many women also suffer from digestive disorders, with constipation being the most common problem. Raisins can solve this annoying problem because they contain fiber, which makes it easier to defecate.

In addition, dried grapes support dental health, so they can help get rid of gingivitis, a common condition for pregnant women. Dried fruits are an excellent source of glucose and fruit sugars, so even one handful of raisins will be enough to get an instant energy boost.

Although this product is healthy, if consumed in excess, it can be detrimental to both mother and baby. The product can provoke a rise in blood sugar levels and, consequently, cause gestational diabetes in a woman. In addition, due to the high caloric content of dried berries, the baby in utero may accumulate excess fat, which will lead to difficulties during childbirth.

Another side effect of overconsumption is an increased likelihood of type 2 diabetes in the child. It is recommended to consume no more than one handful of raisins per day - this is the optimal dose, which will enrich the body of a pregnant woman with enough nutrients.

When breastfeeding

It is possible to consume raisins while breastfeeding. It will help to get rid of fatigue and postpartum depression, restore the heart muscle, contribute to the normalization of the skin, strengthen the nails and teeth. Dried berries are also useful for apathy and are effective in fighting allergy symptoms and inflammations. In addition, their use will strengthen the immune system and pass headaches. Introduce raisins in the diet of a nursing woman should be 2-3 months after the birth of the child. At the first reception it will be enough to eat one small portion (5 g), and after that for 24 hours you need to monitor the baby's condition. If there are no allergies, the product is suitable for further use. After some time, when such food will become habitual, the portion can be increased to 10 g, but eat raisins can be no more than 2-3 times a week.

Before using the grapes should be washed and poured over them for 5 minutes with boiled water to soften. It is worth paying attention to the naturalness of the product. The best option would be shriveled, opaque raisins without seeds. From them you can make uzvar, which will help a still weakened body of a woman to better absorb the necessary vitamins. In the case of diabetes, ulcers and heart failure to eat this product is prohibited.

For children

Raisins are an excellent source of carbohydrates and iron, substances that are necessary for the children's body. Dried berries can be a healthy alternative to candy and other sweets. The product is rich in minerals, which will help in the mental and physical development of the child. Raisins are also useful for fevers and for treating brain injuries. Dried fruits help protect the central nervous system and improve the brain's cognitive abilities.

Despite the fact that raisins are a treasure trove of nutrients, you should not forget about the norms and rules of its consumption. You should not include the product in your baby's diet until he or she is 7-9 months old.

If the baby has not yet begun to erupt teeth, it is worth postponing the berries. Children with physical problems and developmental delays may also find it difficult to swallow and chew such food. It is better to give chopped raisins - this will make it easier to eat the product.

Specialists recommend that children should not drink raisin-based juices. This can be done only in extreme cases, such as fever, and only after consulting your doctor. Even if the norm is met and there are no contraindications, raisins can still have a negative effect on the baby's body. For example, pieces of berries can remain on the teeth, thereby provoking the active reproduction of bacteria. In the long term, this can affect the enamel. It is recommended to give chopped raisins as part of other dishes. You should not feed your baby berries while riding in the car, as this increases the chance of food entering the respiratory tract. You should also make sure that your child eats one raisin at a time.

Can you eat raisins while losing weight?

Raisins do not help you lose weight directly, but they help you lose weight in indirect ways. Eating raisins daily will help you stay in shape and maintain your energy levels. However, dried berries by themselves will not do any good unless they are supplemented by regular exercise.

Dried fruits can act as substitutes for sugar. Dried grapes are rich in natural sugars, so they are a great substitute in this regard. In addition, raisins promote greater energy production, which is necessary for more effective weight loss. It is rich in glucose and fructose, substances that, once in the body, are processed into energy. And the complex of vitamins present in dried fruit help supply energy to the muscles.

Low metabolic rate and poor digestion are the main reasons for slower weight loss. Raisins are rich in fiber, which helps speed up the digestion process. With normal digestion, fats do not accumulate in the body. Obese people often suffer from bone-related illnesses. Excess weight affects the bones in a bad way, making them weaker and more fragile. Raisins can help maintain bone strength and improve bone mobility.

Raisins in medicine

Raisins are used in medicine for the prevention of cardiovascular diseases, hypertension and throat diseases. Infusions based on dried berries show their effectiveness in the fight against jaundice. They can also be used to treat dysentery, some diseases of the kidneys and bladder. Raisins have bactericidal, antibacterial and antioxidant properties and can be used in the treatment of fever.

For Diabetes Mellitus

Raisins should be consumed with extreme caution in diabetes, because even a small amount of the product can affect a sharp increase in blood glucose. In diabetes, sudden sugar spikes can be dangerous.

Experts' opinions on the consumption of dried fruit in diabetes are divided. Some say that patients should completely exclude raisins from their diet. Others confidently declare the usefulness of the product even during the course of the disease. In any case, this product is contraindicated in the severe form of the disease. Speaking in general, it is recommended to soak raisins in hot water before using them, this will reduce their harmful effect on the body. The maximum daily dose - up to 1 tbsp. spoon, and you can not eat it daily.

Important: The glycemic index of raisins is 65 units.

In pancreatitis

During the exacerbation of pancreatitis, it is forbidden to eat raisins, since they overload the pancreas with carbohydrates. In the remission phase, dried fruits are added to various porridges, some meat and fish dishes, and eaten together with baked goods. The product will help to restore strength and support the overall condition. In pancreatitis, raisins may be eaten only in processed form. The maximum daily dose is up to 1 handful, and the reception should be organized in the first half of the day.

In case of gastritis

In the case of increased acidity, it is forbidden to eat raisins, as they act as a stimulant to increase the acidity of the stomach. If we talk about reduced acidity, in this case, raisins are not forbidden, but especially not recommended for consumption. The product will replenish energy reserves and complement a meager diet. Preference should be given to dark varieties, since they are rich in useful substances. Light store raisins are usually treated with chemicals that can harm the stomach. The product should be rinsed thoroughly before consumption.

Raisins are contraindicated in the acute phase of the disease with any acidity. In natural form, the berries should not be eaten, it is better to make decoctions from them.

For the intestines

Regular consumption of raisins helps to normalize intestinal function and improves the overall health of the digestive system. It will also contribute to regular and systematic emptying of the intestines. The dietary fiber present in the product will help in eliminating toxins and impurities from the body.

For constipation

Normal intestinal peristalsis is the most important factor in good health. Foods rich in fiber, including raisins, improve peristalsis and ease gastrointestinal function. Dried grapes help digested food pass smoothly through the gastrointestinal tract.

For gout

Grapes, whether fresh or dried, should not be eaten with gout. And it should not be done neither in the acute phase, nor in the remission phase.

In colitis

In colitis, experts do not recommend, and in some cases even prohibit the use of raisins. If during the course of the disease the patient is tormented by diarrhea, then dried berries should not be eaten. In the case of constipation, it is possible to include them in the diet, but after consulting the attending physician, and dried grapes should be used only as part of other dishes.

For the liver

Raisins are useful for the liver, as they contain inulin, which helps to cleanse this organ of toxins and impurities. Infusions of dried grapes are often recommended as a mild liver cleanser.

For hemorrhoids.

Raisins are also useful for hemorrhoids because they have a mild laxative effect, which in turn prevents damage to the inflamed area.

For cholelithiasis

Raisins are allowed to be consumed in cholecystitis. In this case, it is recommended to make drinks based on dried grapes, they are more useful in this case.

Recipes of folk medicine based on raisins

Remedy for cleansing the body of toxins

1. Pour hot water over washed corn grits (1 cup) (2.5 cups).
2. Add vegetable oil, a small amount of soaked raisins, sugar, salt and mix.
3. Cover and put it in the oven for half an hour.
4. Have porridge.

For the normalization of the work of the gastrointestinal tract.

1. Raisins washed (0.5 cup) mixed with oat flakes (1.5 cups).
2. Pour water (1.5 liters), put on the fire.
3. After boiling, cover with a lid and put in a warm place for 4 hours (it is recommended to wrap with a blanket).
4. Strain the infusion, add lemon juice and honey (to taste).
5. Take the remedy warm, 0.5 cup half an hour before a meal, during the day. The course of treatment is 10 days.

To normalize the heartbeat

1. Mix anise seeds (5 g) with coriander (3 g) and raisins (11 pieces).
2. Pour warm water (1 cup), leave overnight.
3. In the morning, strain and consume.

To extend youthfulness

1. Mix two lemons (without removing the zest), raisins (300 g), apricots (300 g), peeled walnuts (300 g) and honey (300 g).
2. Pass the resulting mass through a meat grinder.
3. Take up to two teaspoons per day.

Cough medicine

1. Raisins (0.5 cup) boiled in water (1 cup), add the juice of onions (1 tbsp.).
2. Take 20 minutes before a meal, one-third cup up to 3 times a day.

Raisins in cosmetology

Raisins are sometimes used in home cosmetology. The useful properties of dried grapes will have a favorable impact on the appearance, rejuvenate and revitalize the skin, as well as strengthen the hair and improve its structure. On the basis of raisins you can make various nourishing masks for both face and hair.

Hazards and contraindications

Dried grapes, like any other product containing highly concentrated active ingredients, has contraindications. It should not be consumed:

• in case of diabetes;
• hyperacidity of the stomach;
• peptic ulcer;
• obesity;
• tuberculosis.

Another negative point is the presence of bones. If not chewed sufficiently, they can provoke appendicitis. In addition, they have a negative effect on dental enamel. Bacteria that multiply in the places where pieces of bone linger in the mouth can harm the mucous membrane of internal organs. This in turn can lead to gastritis or ulcers.

How to Choose and Store Raisins

To choose a quality product, it is worth paying attention to some points:

1. It should have a matte brown or light brown color.
2. It is better to choose resilient berries, on which there is no damage.
3. It is not a good idea to take raisins that are too dry or too wet.
4. A quality product has a sweet taste without a hint of acidity or toastiness.
5. It is not recommended to buy raisins in places that are close to the road or to parking lots.
6. It is also worth checking the expiration date of the product and the integrity of the packaging.

Raisins you have bought should be sorted beforehand. You can store it using the following methods:

1. Pour raisins into a cloth sack, tie and place in a cool, dry place.
2. Pour dried grapes into a glass jar, cover with paper and tie the neck with string. Store at a low humidity and temperature up to +10°C.
3. Pour the raisins into a plastic container, cover tightly and place in the refrigerator.

It is recommended to periodically go through the stock, make sure that no insects have got into the raisins, as well as throw away the rotten berries.

How to make raisins at home

The easiest method of making raisins at home is to dry the grapes using an electric dryer. To do this you need:

1. Select the bunches of grapes, remove damaged and rotten berries.
2. Separate the clusters into small tassels.
3. Boil water with salt and put them in for 5-7 seconds. After that, cool down with cool water.
4. Place the brushes on a tray and place in an electric dryer.
5. The drying temperature is approx. 50°C.
6. From time to time change the trays, this will help to dry the grapes more evenly.

For overripe grapes, another method is appropriate:

1. Separate the grapes from the bunches, rinse, pierce each berry with a toothpick.
2. Let them dry on a towel.
3. Place the grapes on a tray and put it in a dryer.
4. The drying temperature should be about 55°C.
5. Replace the trays every 60 minutes.
6. After 7 hours let the appliance cool down.
7. Repeat the procedure 1-2 times until ready.

Raisins should be soft, elastic, do not secrete juice.

How to eat raisins correctly

Raisins can be eaten as part of various dishes, as well as separately from them. Before eating them, they must be cleaned of seeds, especially if the product is intended for children. It is also important to observe the rate of consumption of dried grapes.

How much can be eaten per day

The daily rate of consumption of raisins is up to 100 g. Raisins contain a large amount of natural sugars, so it is recommended to reduce the amount of sweets.

Can they be eaten at night and on an empty stomach?

Raisins improve sleep, so you can eat them before going to bed. But it is not recommended to do this if sleep is already normal. Raisins are also useful if eaten on an empty stomach. It will stimulate the gastrointestinal tract, get rid of toxins and provide satiety.

Can raisins be eaten on a fasting day?

Dried fruits and berries are allowed during Lent.

Do I have to wash raisins before eating them?

Raisins must be washed before consumption. In addition, it is recommended to soak them in hot water.

What can be made of raisins: Recipes

The variety of varieties of raisins allows them to be used as part of various dishes. Small seedless berries are often present in sweet culinary products, in chocolate bars and candies. Medium-sized raisins with a stone are used for making compotes, and large, usually light-colored berries are considered favorites of Eastern cuisine.

How to make compote

Ingredients:

• Raisins - 300 g.
• Mineral water - 2,5 l.
• Sugar - to taste.

How to cook:

1. Thoroughly rinse the raisins.
2. Place dried grapes in a saucepan, sprinkle it with sugar and pour water.
3. Place on fire. After boiling, reduce the heat, cover the pot with a lid and cook for 30 minutes.

How to make wine

Ingredients:

• Raisins - 2 kg.
• Water - 5 liters.
• Sugar - 400 gr.
• Beer - 500 ml.

How to cook:

1. Pour raisins into a container for fermentation and fill with water. Cover with a glove or a trap and place in a warm place for 2 weeks. When the appearance of abundant foam stir the must 4 times a day.
2. At the end of the fermentation remove the must and pour it into an additional container.
3. Add beer and sugar to the raisin wort and stir. Place in a cool place for 7 days.
4. Strain the wine with a pipe or gauze.

Can we give animals raisins?

Raisins should never be given to dogs because they contain substances which are damaging to a dog's kidneys. For the same reason, dried grapes should not be given to cats either.

Interesting facts about raisins

1. One of the largest suppliers of raisins is the state of California. That said, the commercial potential of this region was discovered quite by accident. In 1873, the areas where grapes were actively grown had a monstrous heat wave, so the fresh grapes turned into shriveled, unsightly berries that did not attract customers. One enterprising San Francisco seller began advertising the shriveled grapes as a "Peruvian delicacy. This attracted a great deal of attention, and thus a great demand for raisins arose.
2. In 1876, Scottish immigrant William Thompson was able to grow a seedless grape variety. Many raisin producers are still grateful to him for this discovery.
3. In ancient Rome, one slave could be exchanged for two jars of raisins.
4. It would take about 4 tons of grapes to produce 1 ton of raisins.
5. It is believed that the Armenians and Phoenicians were the first to cultivate grapes.
6. In 1948, during the blockade of West Berlin, food was supplied only by air transport. One American pilot decided, before landing, to drop bags containing sweets on parachutes to the residents. Later other pilots began to do this as well, and they also dropped various sweets that were purchased with money donated by residents of Great Britain and the United States. These bags usually contained chocolate products, gum, and raisins. It is also interesting that the planes that delivered this cargo eventually acquired the name "raisin bombers."

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