1) Raisins can increase your mental acuity:
Raisins are an excellent source of boron, which is a mineral that has an important link to cognitive function. More specifically, studies have shown that consuming boron helps to improve coordination, boost memory, and heighten concentration.
2) They may improve your dental health:
Although raisins are high in sugar, they might actually help to prevent tooth decay because of the powerful phytochemicals that they contain. Raisins provide you with oleanolic acid, 5-(hydroxymethyl)-2-furfural, botulinic acid, betulin and lanolin aldehyde. Laboratory tests on these phytochemicals have shown that they inhibit the growth of bacteria that causes tooth decay, and also help to stop bacteria from sticking to your teeth.
3) They promote bone health:
The boron in raisins can also mimic the influence of estrogen in postmenopausal women, helping to prevent osteoporosis (i.e. brittle bones). In addition, raisins provide you with copper, and copper is required for the function of enzymes that increase bone flexibility.
4) They can help to prevent anemia:
Half a cup of raisins provides you with 2mg of iron, which is over 5% of your recommended daily intake. Having enough iron in your diet makes sure that enough red blood cells are produced, thereby warding off anemia (which is characterized by a lack of red blood cells). This protection against anemia is an extremely important health benefit of raisins, as red blood cells carry oxygen to all of your vital organs.
5) They boost energy levels:
A serving of raisins provides you with a reasonable amount of copper, and this mineral promotes the metabolization and use of carbohydrates. This produces plenty of energy, so try snacking on a handful of raisins if you are tired (or tend to suffer from periods of lethargy between meals).
6) They can boost your immune system:
The aforementioned phytonutrients can help to destroy the types of bacteria that cause infections. Studies have also shown that the zinc in raisins may additionally improve your resistance to disease by helping to shorten the duration of certain viral infections (such as the common cold).
7) They may help to prevent cancer:
Since raisins contain manganese, eating them can help your body to form antioxidant enzymes that work to fight the damage that can be caused by free radicals. Currently, many scientists investigating the nature of cancer theorize that there is a substantial link between free radical damage and the development of cancer. In addition, since raisins are a good source of fiber, they can help to lower your risk of developing colorectal cancer.
8. They can help to preserve your vision:
People who eat vegetables that are particularly rich in antioxidants are thought to be over 35% less likely to end up suffering from macular degeneration. Since macular degeneration is the primary cause of partial or full blindness in the elderly, this health benefit of raisins becomes particularly important as you grow older.
9) They might have a beneficial impact on mood:
Raisins contain tryptophan, which is a substance that has been shown to reduce feelings of anxiety and mild depression.
10) They help to keep your heart healthy:
Raisins provide you with potassium, which regulates blood pressure and helps to keep it within healthy limits. They also provide you with manganese, which studies have shown can help to reduce your levels of cellular inflammation. This, in turn, will lower your risk of developing cardiovascular diseases.
11) They are good for your digestive system:
Raisins provide you with plenty of fiber, which promotes digestive health by helping to keep your bowel movements regular. In addition, raisins are a source of tartaric acid, and this acid also helps to prevent constipation.
As is obvious from the above health benefits, raisins are an excellent addition to your diet if you want to increase your intake of fruits and vegetables. However, it is worth noting that people who are sensitive to sulfites should be careful when purchasing raisins, as sulfur-containing substances are often added to raisins as preservatives.