By: Samar Yahya
Dried fruits have a long history; they go back to the time of early Phoenicians and Egyptians who expanded the popularity of Dried Fruits throughout the world.
Due to their long-term storage and ease of transport, Dried Fruits travelled with Christopher Columbus, and accompanied astronaut Scott Carpenter in outer space in 1962.
Traditionally Dried Fruits process was made by sun-dried method or by dehydration using wind tunnels.
Dried fruits offer some advantages over fresh fruits, nutrients in dried fruits become more concentrated so, and they offer numerous health benefits.
If one is on a diet, dried fruits can be opted as a great source of energy and fiber, but should be eaten in moderation as they contain significantly more calories per serving than fresh fruits offer, so you may limit your intake of dried fruit due to the calorie content.
Due to their various benefits, dried apricots, prunes, and raisins are called ‘The Super Foods’. Fasting during the Holy Month of Ramadan, we all need energy and Dried Fruits are excellent source for energy in addition to more benefits of dried fruits:
Antioxidant and Rich in Iron
Some Dried Fruits are a good source of certain antioxidants, according to a study in the ‘Journal of the American College of Nutrition’, antioxidants are plentiful in fruits like dates and figs than in some fresh fruits. Antioxidants have anti-cancer properties and inhibit cancerous growths. They are a good source of iron so regular consumption helps to prevent the development of anemia.
More Fiber
Dried Fruits are rich in beta-carotene, folic acid, fiber and iron.
Dried fruits generally contain more fiber which helps keep your digestive system running smoothly. According to the Harvard School of Public Health, Fiber helps prevent obesity, heart disease and some forms of cancer.
They Keep Cancer Away
Eating dried fruits help keep cancer away. They contain phytonutrients and fiber, which help the body get rid of cancer-causing agents.
Good for Eyes
Known for their rich Pro-vitamin A and beta-carotene content, dried fruits such as apricots are known to prevent age related loss of sight in older people. It also helps to strengthen the optic nerves.
Healthy Skin and Bones
Studies show that eating dried fruits help skin to be healthier. Vitamin C help to reduce fine lines and wrinkles and gives the skin a smooth appearance. It also enables faster cell regeneration to replace the dead skin cells.
Dried fruits contain Omega 3 and other fatty agents necessary for healthy skin and immune system. Due to their high calcium and potassium content, dried fruits give more strength to the bones formation and development while potassium is instrumental in the absorption, distribution and excretion of Calcium in the body.
Fats and Calories
Antioxidants in dried fruits such as cranberries, raisins, and plums are twice as potent and full of minerals as compared to fresh fruits and they don’t contain fat, cholesterol, or sodium.
They also contain significant calories per serving, making them a natural source of energy for athletes. They are also a good supplement for people seeking to gain weight healthfully.
Dried fruits can also help in fighting heart disease, cancer, osteoporosis, diabetes, cancer and degenerative diseases of the brain. They are rich in antioxidants, potassium, iron and plenty of other ingredients.
