Dried fruits are fruits with zero water content. The water inside the fruit shrinks during the entire process, leaving back small energy dense fruits.
Raisins are the most common type, followed by dates, prunes, figs and apricots.
Dried fruit is highly nutritious.
One piece of dried fruit contains about the same amount of nutrients as the fresh fruit, but condensed in a much smaller package.
By weight, dried fruit contains up to 3.5 times the fiber, vitamins and minerals of fresh fruit.
Raisins
Raisins are dried grapes that are packed with fiber, potassium and various health-promoting plant compounds.
They have a low to medium Glycemic index value, and a low insulin index
Raisins help in boosting
- Lower blood pressure.
- Improve blood sugar control.
- Decrease inflammatory markers and blood cholesterol.
- Lead to increased feeling of fullness.
Prunes
Prunes are dried plums that are highly nutritious, rich in fiber, potassium, beta-carotene (vitamin A) and vitamin K.
They are known for their natural laxative effects.
It has high content of fiber and sugar alcohol called sorbitol, which is found naturally in some fruit.
Eating prunes helps in improving stool frequency and consistency. Prunes are considered to be even more effective at relieving constipation than psyllium, which is another common remedy
Prunes are considered to be rich in a mineral called boron, which can help fight osteoporosis
Dates
Dates are incredibly sweet and are great source of fiber, potassium, iron and several plant compounds.
Of all the dried fruit, they are one of the richest sources of antioxidants, contributing to reduce oxidative damage in the body
Eating dates regularly during the last few weeks of pregnancy may help facilitate cervical dilation, as well as decrease the need for induced labor.
Apricots
Apricots are rich source of Vitamin A that boosts healthy eyes and immunity.
The soluble fiber in the fruit promotes digestive system and healthy bowel movement as it adds bulk to the stools.
The potassium in the fruit can lower blood pressure levels, that prevent heart attacks.
Apricots are also good sources of iron, which helps treat anemia. Iron improves hemoglobin production
Figs
Figs are good source of Vitamin A; it helps in digestion by softening stool, making bowel movements regular, and prevent constipation.
It contains potassium that boosts heart health and manage blood pressure.
Here are a few benefits of Fig
- Creates new red & white blood cells (important for immunity)
- Boosts healthy vision
- Maintain health of heart, lungs, and other organs
Boosts reproductive health