Healthy, tasty, packed with nutrition, easy to carry -it's easy to go nuts over nuts. Dry fruits are not just delicacies but are powerhouses of nutrition.
Here are some benefits of dry fruits:
Heart Health – Dry Fruits being naturally high in mono-unsaturated fatty acids and Vitamin E they help in maintaining healthy cholesterol levels. Presence of magnesium and potassium also help to maintain normal blood pressure and heart function. Add them in your daily diet and watch out for effective results.
Weight Management - High dietary fiber, proteins and good fats present in dry fruits makes you feel fuller and thus helps to avoid overeating. Studies have shown that those on a dry fruit-enriched diet have had greater reductions in weight, waistline circumference and body fat.
Blood Sugar Control - Experts believe that when dry fruits are included with a meal, the monounsaturated fatty acids in almonds helps to slow down the release of glucose into the blood stream and thus prevents sudden spikes in the blood sugar levels.
Brain Food – Dry fruits have a number of neuroprotective compounds such as vitamin E, Omega 3 fatty acids and antioxidants which help to enhance cognitive function. They help to fight stress and promote a sense of calm. According to studies, vitamin E and flavanoids in dry fruits also help to destroy harmful free radicals that can cause dementia.
Cancer Fighting Properties - Regular consumption can help to reduce the risk of pancreatic and breast cancer as well as reduce the proliferation of cancer cells. Research has shown that its high ALA (Alpha Linolenic Acid, which is an Omega 3 Fatty acid) and melatonin content maybe responsible for its chemo-preventive properties.
Good for Skin and Hair – Dry fruits are rich in B-vitamins and antioxidants that fight free radical damage thus delaying and helping prevent wrinkles and other signs of ageing. Further, the presence of biotin helps to strengthen hair and reduces hair fall.
Thyroid Control – Dry fruits are among the richest sources of Selenium which helps to maintain the normal functioning of Thyroid. Selenium serves as a catalyst in the production of the Thyroid hormone and thus their regular consumption helps to improve the hormone level in patients with reduced levels.
Energy Booster - Being naturally high in sugars such as glucose, fructose and sucrose, dry fruits can give an immediate boost of energy. It is often used for breaking fasts since it helps to revitalize the body instantly.
Eases Digestion - The fiber content present in them helps to promote digestion and also relieves constipation. It is a very good home remedy to keep constipation at bay. They are also rich in Potassium which has been shown to control diarrhea.
Good for Eyes – Dry fruits, owing to their rich Pro-vitamin A and beta carotenoid content, are known to prevent age related loss of sight in older people. It also helps to strengthen the optic nerves. Make this wholesome food a part of your daily diet and watch out for results.