THE VALUE OF DRY FRUITS

THE VALUE OF DRY FRUITS


Raisins, cashew nuts, figs are wholesome and check acidity
in an empty stomach.They also recharge the body with minerals
like iron, calcium and potassium.

Raisins, Dates, fig, cashew nut, Almond, Apricot and prune
which are a healthy alternative to fresh fruits.

Bacteria fail to develop when the water in the fruit is below
25%. The common drying agents are sun and hot air devices.
Many of the nutrients like dietary fibres, protiens and other
phyto chemicals are concentrated during drying process.

Drying of fruits does not change the calorie value,fibre content
and mineral composition. Easy to carry along with, a handful of
dried fruits can give instant energy boost.
As they contain natural sugars, mostly in easily digestable forms,
like glucose and fructose, it quicky enters the blood stream as an
immediate source of energy.

RAISINS :- are dried grapes, prepared from wine grapes with a high
sugar content and firm flesh. Raisins have high calorie value .
They are helpful in anaemia and to gain body weight.
Ayurveda recommends black raisins for the re-establishment of sexual
vigour.Raisins are also a good remedy for constipation and are given
to infants to help regular bowel action.

DRY DATES :- contains 84% edible matter consisting of carbohydrates,
dietary fibre, proteins and fats.They contain more natural sugars
(glucose and fructose) than any other fruit.Dates are also a rich
source of potassium, calcium, iron and magnesium.
Nicotine in dates is helpful for intestinal disturbances and is a
good laxative.

PRUNES ;- are plums with higher sugar content, and are cured by drying.
After rupturing the skin, they are dried, either under the sun or
artifically after which they are allowed to ''''sweat''''for a few weeks,
and are finally graded and marketed.
All dried fruits are good source of antioxidants, with prunes having
highest amount of antioxidants.

DRIED FIGS :- in addition to their nutritive value have protein
digesting enzymes and laxative properties, thus important in herbal
medicine. Dried fig is an effective remedy for bilious diseases.

ALMOND :- are rich in fat(59 per cent) with 10 percent carbohydrates
and with no starch at all. It is also a rich source of potassium,
calcium, and fairly good amount Vitamin B.
Almond is an excellent tonic for nervous system. Writer.............. JACOB VARGHESE Summary by ..........R.Krishnkumar
Email : routhu_krishna@yahoo.co.in