Amazing! Who Knew Raisins Were This Good For You?

Raisins have been revered as a healthy snack for centuries as they contain just the right amount of sugar, vitamins, fiber, minerals, and antioxidants to curb a sweet tooth while offering plenty of health benefits. 

Raisins are made from seedless grapes, which have been harvested and sun-dried to turn their skins into the gorgeous shades of caramel and brown that they’re known for. Being a great source of energy and nutrients, raisins are some of the best and most affordable health foods in the world and they’re perfectly suitable for all ages. 

Below you’ll find 10 incredible health benefits of raisins. 

1. Relieve Constipation
Raisins contain fiber which swells when eaten and absorbs the natural fluids present in the body. This adds bulk to any food moving through the intestinal tract, ultimately helping to provide relief from constipation. This type of fiber is known as insoluble fiber as it takes in water and gains volume in that way.

2. Promote Weight Gain 

Raisins help people gain weight in a healthy way as they’re full of glucose and fructose. They form an ideal part of a diet for bodybuilders or athletes who need a powerful boost of energy, or for those who want to put on weight without accumulating unhealthy amounts of cholesterol. 

3. Prevent Cancer
Raisins contain high levels of catechins that help to prevent cancer. These are polyphenolic antioxidants that destroy any free radicals in the body, which are one of the primary underlying causes of cancer growth. Furthermore, the fiber content of raisins help to promote excretion of bile from the body, thus flushing out any dangerous toxins that can cause cancer. 

4. Reduces Hypertension 

Studies have shown a positive correlation between reduced hypertension and consumption of raisins. Many of the nutrients found in raisins are beneficial, but experts believe that it’s the high level of potassium that helps reduce hypertension. Potassium is a well-researched mineral that helps to reduce the tension of blood vessels and decrease high blood pressure, and the dietary fiber is also thought to reduce the stiffness of blood vessels which, in turn, reduces hypertension. 

5. Dental Care
Oleanolic acid, one of the phytochemicals present in raisins, plays an important role in protecting your teeth from decay, cavities, and brittleness. This acid helps to prevent the growth of Streptococcus mutans and Porphyromonas gingivalis, two of the bacterial species that are responsible for cavities. As strange as this might sound, when eating these dried fruits, let them stick to your teeth for a bit as this ensures an extended contact of oleanolic acid with your teeth. Furthermore, raisins are rich in calcium, which strengthens and demineralizes tooth enamel. 

6. Heart Health 

The high levels of fiber, potassium, phenolic acid, polyphenols, tannins, and antioxidants present in raisins help to burn cholesterol and lower blood pressure, promoting good cardiac health. 

7. Controls Diabetes
In a number of studies, raisins have been shown to lower the postprandial insulin response, which means that they can stabilize the spikes or plunges of insulin after a meal that can be potentially dangerous to those with diabetes. They also help to regulate the release of ghrelin and leptin, which are the hormones that are responsible for telling the body when it’s full or hungry. By keeping a check on these hormones, people who eat raisins can improve their chances of maintaining a healthy diet and prevent overeating. 

8. Treat Anemia 

 Raisins contain a lot of iron, which helps in the treatment of anemia. It also contains a lot of vitamin B which is essential for the formation of new blood. The high copper content also helps in the production of red blood cells. 

9. Eye Health
Raisins contain antioxidant-rich polyphenolic phytonutrients, which are excellent for ocular health. They help to protect the eyes from the damage caused by free radicals, in the form of macular degeneration, cataracts, and age-related weakening of vision. 

10. Reduces Arthritis Pain 

Raisins constitute a natural source of antioxidants and polyphenols, which have strong anti-inflammatory properties. Gin-soaked golden raisins are a popular home remedy which helps to relieve chronic and arthritic pain. Anecdotal evidence suggests that people show an improvement in arthritic symptoms between 1-8 weeks of consuming ten of these drunken raisins each day.

This is only for your information, kindly take the advice of your doctor for food, medicines, exercises and so on.   

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The Persimmon: 9 Terrific Health Benefits!

Isn’t it amazing to know that fruits aren’t only meant to provide us with a way to satisfy our sweet cravings, but that they also have so many health benefits? It turns out that persimmon - the orange and shiny fruit reminiscent of a tomato - contains a large number of vitamins and minerals that can help us get through the winter much stronger, healthier and full of energy. In order to learn more about this amazing fruit’s medical abilities in-depth, we invite you to read on. We’ve also added a delicious recipe at the end that’ll make you fall in love with a fruit that was considered a "fruit of the gods" in ancient Greece.

 

Some interesting facts about persimmon 

 

The persimmon is a sweet and juicy winter fruit originating from southeastern China and belonging to the stone fruit group. The persimmon has four different varieties; Japanese, American, Indian, and black persimmon. Each of these species has the same basic nutritional benefits and values, with slight changes in dietary fiber intake. The persimmon is rich in vitamin A, vitamin C, magnesium, potassium, beta-carotene and other B vitamins such as zeaxanthin, carotenoids, and minerals. 

 

9 Health Benefits of Persimmon 

 

1. Protects the immune system 

 

The persimmon is a winter fruit by design it seems, because it contains a high amount of vitamin C. Vitamin C considered one of the most effective and nourishing vitamins in the body's immune system and is found in most winter fruits as this is the season in which our bodies are more prone to bacteria and viruses. Eating one persimmon a day helps the body fight the free radicals that harm it, therefore, by consuming the fruit it increases the production of white blood cells, a process that leads to a reduced risk of various diseases.

2. Healthy for the heart 

Eating one persimmon is more effective at reducing the risk for heart disease, than eating apples for example. An initial comparison between the two fruits by a group of international researchers found that persimmons contain a significantly higher concentration of dietary fiber, minerals and phenolic compounds that help fight atherosclerosis, which is the leading cause of heart disease, heart attacks, and stroke. According to a study conducted in cooperation with the Israeli Ministry of Health and the Kaplan Medical Center, eating one medium persimmon a day, about 100 grams, helps prevent atherosclerosis and various heart diseases.

3. Helps maintain eye health 

 Like most orange fruits and vegetables, persimmon was found to contain a compound that is beneficial for maintaining eye health and vision. Zeaxanthin - which is one of the most common alcoholic carotenoids in nature and forms the color that ranges from red to yellow - is found in the fruit and is part of the substances which are important to eye health. According to a study published in the Journal of Food Chemistry, there is a direct link between consumption of zeaxanthin and improving eye health, as this compound acts as an antioxidant that can reduce molecular degeneration, night blindness, and cataracts.

4. Protects against cancer  

Cancer is one of the deadliest diseases in our world, and there is much advice to incorporate many different foods in order to prevent the disease from developing. However, you should know that persimmon is one of the most recommended fruits to eat and consume. As already mentioned, persimmons contain antioxidants that help the body fight the free radicals that can cause the destruction of cells and the formation of cancerous tumors. The presence of vitamin A in the fruit, in combination with betulinic acid, enriches the body's protective system, which can remove toxins that are highly capable of converting healthy cells into cancer. Korean researchers have suggested that fruits such as persimmon and mandarin can reduce the risk of developing thyroid cancer and prevent the development of the disease in the early stages. 

 

5. Improves digestive function 

The persimmon is known as a fruit that contains a rich amount of dietary fiber which is beneficial for improving the digestion process. It is important to note that there are two types of fiber sources: insoluble and soluble - the first passes directly through the body and isn’t digested while the second type is digested and provides the body with important nutrients. The fibers found in persimmon help in clearing the digestive tract, thus preventing constipation. In addition, another advantage in the quick clearing of the digestive system is its ability to prevent anal infections and also help in the treatment and prevention of conditions leading to colon cancer or hemorrhoids.

6. Helps weight loss 

The autumn and winter periods are known as seasons where many gain weight due to lack of physical activity and because of the need to eat more to keep warm. So, if you want a sweet fruit to replace your daily snack, you should choose Persimmon. Not only does it have almost no fat, but a medium-large fruit weighing 168 grams has a total of only 31 calories. In addition, the amount of dietary fiber in it accounts for about 20% of the recommended daily intake and causes a feeling of long-lasting satiety. These important facts make this tasty fruit an ideal healthy snack for all those who want to lose weight. 

 

 

7. Protects against premature aging 

In addition to vitamin C being one of the most effective antioxidants in protecting the immune system, it’s also an especially effective antioxidant for skin health. Because it is a soluble vitamin, it doesn’t accumulate in our body and therefore requires regular replenishment through the food we consume. Other vitamins such as A and K - which maintain skin health, reduce wrinkles and inhibit aging - are also found in the sweet fruit, accompanied by beta-carotene, zeaxanthin, and lutein, which also act as antioxidants. As has been said, the role of antioxidants is to combat the harmful effects of the body created by free radicals and to protect it from the formation of diseases and infections.

8. Prevents kidney stones 

Eating one persimmon a day is enough to help prevent kidney stones because persimmon is rich in potassium - a mineral that helps protect the kidneys from the formation of this nuisance. Kidney stones may also be caused by lack of calcium in the body, so eating the fruit can help prevent the problem because of its relatively high calcium content. 

 

9. Helps lower body temperature 

 Persimmon is considered a fruit that contains a relatively high amount of water and therefore it can cool the body better than other fruits, which have a lower percentage of juice. Scientists at the University of Kyoto, Japan, have investigated and found that eating too much of the fruit actually reduces body temperature. Because persimmon is a winter fruit, some of you may think that lowering body temperature isn’t recommended, but how about when your body temperature rises due to fever? To counteract this bodily response, persimmon can be used as a natural and healthy "remedy."

Side effects of persimmon consumption 

 

Despite all the health benefits of persimmon mentioned above, you should know that there are also side effects in people with various health problems and for them, there are certain limitations, for example: 

 

Persimmon contains a high level of tannin, so don’t eat the fruit on an empty stomach because it may cause diarrhea, and even if you eat it on a full stomach make sure to consume the fruit in moderation. 

 

People with low blood pressure shouldn’t eat persimmon as it can lower blood pressure and cause serious health complications. 

 

The fruit’s sugar content is very high, therefore, people with diabetes should avoid eating it completely.

 

If you eat the fruit with its peel, be careful not to overdo it, because it can cause severe stomach constipation. 

 

To finish...

In conclusion, it is important to note that each type of food we eat has advantages and sometimes side effects, but the benefits of these foods still outweigh the disadvantages. Another thing is to always emphasize the quantities we consume – even good things should be eaten in moderation. We’re sure you’re just itching to eat this fruit for its many health benefits. Try incorporating it into your menu with this next tasty and special recipe.

This is only for your information, kindly take the advice of your doctor for medicines, exercises and so on.   

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https://gseasyrecipes.blogspot.com. feel free to view for easy, simple and healthy recipes    
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https://GSiyers home remedies.blogspot.com   is the latest addition to my blogs

How to Preserve the Health of Your Eyes

Your eyes are your windows to the world and key bodily components for interacting with it. As you age, you might experience some problems with them, just as many people do. Many eye conditions sound scary, however advancements in eye treatment have come a long way. Here is a list of the most common eye concerns, explained simply. I’ve also gathered some tips on how to improve your eye health in your day-to-day life, which you can see by scrolling down to the end.

Presbyopia - The loss of the ability to see close objects or small print. This is a natural process that happens to everyone. It’s only noticeable after the age of 40, and is fairly easy to correct with reading glasses. Prescriptions for them are not needed in most instances, and they can be bought over the counter at a pharmacy. 

 

 Floaters -  These are the tiny spots that often float in your line of vision. They don’t usually cause any harm and are fairly normal. If they are accompanied by flashes, this indicates a more serious problem and you should go to an ophthalmologist.

Dry eyes - This is when your tear glands are not producing quality tears, causing uncomfortable itching and burning. This condition can be caused by medication, contacts, weather conditions or hormonal changes. A doctor might recommend using a humidifier or artificial tears, having plugs placed in the tear ducts to lessen tear drainage, or Lipiflow, a new procedure using heat and pressure. 

 

Tearing -The opposite of dry eyes, you might experience an excess of tears. Often light sensitivity, wind, and temperature changes affect the eyes. Sometimes tearing can be prevented by wearing sunglasses. It might also indicate a more serious condition like a blocked tear duct or an infection. In both cases, a doctor can help treat this problem. 

 

Eyelid problems - The eyelid's job is to protect the eye, distribute tears and control the amount of light entering it. Sometimes they droop, have blinking spasms, develop sties, or the outer edges near the eyelashes become inflamed. Eyelids might experience pain, itching, tearing and sensitivity to light. These problems can be treated with medication, proper cleaning or surgery. 

 

Cataracts - One of the most common eye problems associated with aging. Proteins in the eye can cluster and form a cloud over the lens. These formations cause no pain and usually do not alter vision. If they grow large or thick, they can block light from entering the eye. They can be removed with surgery. 

 

Glaucoma - A disease associated with increased eye pressure, which can damage the optic nerve and cause loss of vision. Glaucoma can be treated with prescription eye drops or surgery. Because there are no symptoms or initial pain, it's important to have your eyes regularly checked by an eye doctor, despite it being a less common eye condition.

 

Corneal diseases - The cornea is the dome-shaped front of the eye, which helps transmit and focus light. The cornea can become damaged by disease, infection, injury and exposure to toxic agents. The eye will become red, watery, and experience pain. One might also have reduced vision and experience the halo effect. Corneal disease can be treated with medicated eye drops, prescription glasses or by surgery. 

 

Conjunctivitis (Pink Eye) - This is when the tissue lining the eyelids and covering the cornea becomes inflamed. The eye becomes red, itches, burns, tears and has discharge. Sometimes it feels as if something is in the eye. Conjunctivitis is caused by infection, exposure to chemicals or irritants and allergies. It can be treated with medicated drops, warm compresses or lubricating drops to make the eye more comfortable.

Retinal disorders - The retina is the layer of tissue at the back of the inner eye. It changes visual images into to nerve signals, which are sent to the brain. Diseases of the retina disrupt nerve signal transfer and can cause vision impairment. It’s important to have your eyes tested regularly to catch any problem early, receive treatment and prevent vision loss. 

 

Macular degeneration: loss of sharp central vision often associated with aging. 

 

Retinal detachment: the retina becomes separated from its supporting layers. 

 

Diabetic retinopathy: diabetes damages the blood vessels in the retina.

Eye Care Tips 

 

1. Visit the eye doctor, even if you have good vision

Part of good eye health is going to the eye doctor regularly. People who have good eyesight often neglect visiting the eye doctor. It’s important to regularly have your eyes inspected by an ophthalmologist so they can detect even slight changes in your eyes health. The health of your eyes connects to other systematic health issues. 

 

 2. Eat for good vision 

 The old saying that carrots are good for the eyes has some truth in it. Choosing foods high in antioxidants and nutrients lowers the risk for eye diseases. Choose foods rich in lutein, Omega-3 fatty acids, Vitamin C and E. The recommended foods are leafy greens, cold water fish, nuts, beans, eggs, soy, and fruit with dark skin (i.e. berries, cherries, grapes). Citrus fruits, avocado, broccoli, and tea are also healthy choices.

3. Protective eye wear 

Your eyes can easily be damaged by the sun and hazardous materials. Wearing sunglasses and protective goggles are a good start. If you wear glasses, you should get your lenses coated with an anti-reflective layer to minimize glare. UV rays also reflect off water, sand and snow, so it’s important to wear sunglasses if you're faced with these instances. Make sure your sunglasses protect against both UVA and UBV rays, and are ranked as category 2 at least.

 

4. Take your contacts out 

 Your eyes need exposure to oxygen. If you wear contacts during the day, make sure it is for no more than 19 hours. Wearing them longer can cause eye irritation and dryness. 

 

5. Good rules for computer (and other) screen time

If you spend a lot of your day looking at a computer screen, employ the 20-20-20 rule. Rest your eyes every 20 minutes, looking 20 feet (6 meters) in front of you for 20 seconds. It’s also a good idea to make sure your eyes are level with the screen, and that you are blinking often. People blink less when they are staring at a computer screen.

6. Remove eye makeup  

Wearing mascara, eye liner and eye shadow can clog up the pores around your eyes. This can cause eye irritation and sties. A good idea is to keep makeup wipes next to your bed so that you don’t forget to wipe off your makeup before bed. 

 

7. Control the air environment 

Many offices and homes have dry air and this can irritate the eye and cause dryness. Installing a humidifier can solve this problem. A more organic way to release moisture into the air is by placing bowls of water around a room.

This is only for your information, kindly take the advice of your doctor for medicines, exercises and so on.   

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Cranberries: 9 health benefits beyond UTI prevention

   

Cranberries are known for their vibrant red colour and tangy-sweet taste. These ruby-red marvels grow naturally in acidic wetlands across North America and have a sharp, sour taste, so they are rarely eaten raw and are most commonly enjoyed dried or juiced. Packed with nutrients like vitamins C and A, as well as antioxidants such as flavonoids and phenolic acids, cranberries boast an impressive array of health benefits. From warding off urinary tract infections (UTIs) to supporting heart health and promoting better oral hygiene, these little berries punch above their weight in nutritional value. So, add them to your diet to enjoy cranberry benefits!

Nutritional value of cranberries

Fresh cranberries contain 90 percent water, with the remaining portion consisting largely of carbohydrates, fibre, vitamins, and other nutrients. They also contain antioxidants, such as flavonoids, which are plant-based compounds known for reducing inflammation. According to the US Department of Agriculture (USDA), one cup or 100 grams of whole raw cranberries provides the following nutritional breakdown:

 

• Calories: 46
• Protein: 0.4 grams
• Carbohydrate: 12.2 grams
• Sugar: 4 grams
• Fibre: 4.6 grams
• Fat: 0.1 grams
• Sodium: 2 mg (milligrams)
• Calcium: 8 mg
• Iron: 0.23 mg
• Potassium: 80 mg
• Magnesium: 6 mg
• Phosphorus: 11 mg
• Vitamin C: 14 mg (25 percent of your daily requirement)
• Vitamin E: 1.3 mg

Cranberries also contain a range of essential B vitamins, including vitamin B-1 (thiamin), vitamin B-2 (riboflavin), vitamin B-3 (niacin) and vitamin B-6.

9 health benefits of cranberries

1. Loaded with antioxidants

Like many other colourful fruits and vegetables, cranberries are high in antioxidants, which help defend your body against free radicals. These molecules can damage cells, increasing the risk of heart disease and certain types of cancer. However, a study published by Molecules reveals that cranberry fruit is not only rich in phenolic acids and flavonoids but also has cardioprotective, anti-carcinogenic, anti-diabetic, anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, antibacterial, antiviral, and other effects that are linked to various health benefits. Remember, the antioxidant content may be reduced during the juicing process.

 2. Contains anti-ageing properties

The ageing process is closely linked to oxidative stress and inflammation. “By combating oxidative stress, anti-ageing properties in cranberries may help slow down the ageing of cells and tissues, promoting healthy and youthful skin,” says Dr Archana Batra, a nutritionist, and certified diabetes educator. They are also involved in boosting collagen production, a protein crucial for maintaining skin elasticity and reducing wrinkles. Apart from this, a study published indicated that cranberry polyphenols demonstrate various anti-ageing properties, including delayed ageing, prolonged healthy lifespan, and improved cognitive health in middle-aged adults.

3. Prevents urinary tract infections (UTIs)

UTIs are a common and uncomfortable condition, especially among women. Cranberries have long been touted as a natural remedy to prevent UTIs due to their ability to inhibit the growth of bacteria, particularly Escherichia coli or E. coli, (the most common type of bacteria that causes UTI). A meta-analysis published in 2017 concluded that participants with a history of UTI found that cranberry reduced the risk of recurring UTIs by 26 percent.

 4. Supports heart health

Heart disease is the leading cause of death worldwide. Eating cranberries may contribute to heart health, thanks to their antioxidant content, such as anthocyanins, proanthocyanins, and quercetin. A study published in the Journal of Advances in Nutrition found that cranberries can reduce inflammation and improve cholesterol levels. Moreover, anti-inflammatory compounds can reduce the risk factors for heart disease, such as blood cholesterol, blood pressure, and stress.

 5. Protects against certain cancers

Cranberries can also keep the risk of certain cancers at bay! Their antioxidants not only combat oxidative stress but also possess anti-cancer properties. A review published in Antioxidants suggests that cranberries’ antioxidant content might reduce the risk of 17 types of cancer, such as breast cancer, lung cancer, and cervical cancer, by inhibiting cancer cell growth and clearing them from the body.

6. Promotes eye health

Cranberries are also known for improving eyesight. It offers nutrients that support eye health, including vitamins A and C, and antioxidants like lutein and zeaxanthin. These compounds help protect the eyes from oxidative damage caused by UV light and other environmental stressors. A study published by Pharmaceutical Biology also supported the benefits of cranberries for improving eye health and vision.

7. Good for gut health

A healthy gut is essential to maintain overall well-being, and cranberries are good for your digestive health and immunity. They are packed with fibre and may have prebiotic benefits, which support the growth of beneficial bacteria in the gut, reducing the risk of indigestion. Not only this, cranberries also reduce bile acids in the gut that have a link to colon and gastrointestinal cancers.

8. Boosts immunity

Another benefit of cranberries is robust immune system that is essential for fighting off infections and maintaining overall health. As per a study published in the Journal of Molecules, cranberries are loaded with vitamins C and A, along with other nutrients and antioxidants, which strengthen the immune system and help the body defend against pathogens. You will see the positive effects if you consume cranberries regularly.

Packed with protein, fibre antioxidants, vitamins and minerals, there are several benefits of cranberries which include supporting heart health, preventing UTI, boosting immunity, etc.

9. Improves oral hygiene

Cranberries possess proanthocyanidins, a nutrient that hinders harmful oral bacteria. This not only reduces bacteria associated with cavities and gum disease but also combats bad breath. According to a study published by the Indian Society of Periodontology, cranberries show therapeutic potential in oral diseases like caries and periodontitis due to their anti-adhesive and antimicrobial properties.

Are there any side effects of cranberries?

Cranberries are enjoyed for their tart flavour and potential health benefits but they also pose some side effects.

1. Upset stomach: Digestive issues like upset stomach are common due to their acidic content, which may cause discomfort for some individuals.
2. Kidney stones: Another concern is kidney stones. Despite cranberry’s abilities to prevent urinary tract infections (UTI), their high oxalate content can contribute to stone formation in susceptible individuals, according to the National Kidney Foundation.
3. Allergic reaction: Allergic reactions, though rare, can cause itching, swelling, or breathing difficulties, particularly in those sensitive to similar fruits like strawberries.

Are dried cranberries healthy?

Dried cranberries provide the same level of nutrients, which include essential fibre, vitamins, and minerals. While they are nutritious, dried cranberries are often sweetened with added sugars, increasing their calorie content. They also have slightly lower levels of antioxidants and fibre compared to raw or fresh cranberries.

How to eat cranberries?

Here are 4 ways to enjoy cranberries:

• Add fresh cranberries to salads, yoghurt, or oatmeal for a tart flavour and nutritional content.
• Drink unsweetened cranberry juice to not exceed your daily sugar consumption.
• Sprinkle dried cranberries over cereal, blend them into smoothies, or use them in baking recipes for a touch of sweetness.
• Make cranberry sauce at home with fresh cranberries, orange zest, and a hint of cinnamon to enjoy it with desserts.

 

 

This is only for your information, kindly take the advice of your doctor for medicines, exercises and so on.   

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