In order to completely grasp the health related effects of raisins in our bodies, it is important to understand exactly what they and other antioxidant rich foods do within our bodies. Antioxidants are essentially substances or nutrients that are present in the foods we consume that prevent or slow down the oxidative damage to our body. During the natural metabolic processes in the body and as a result of other environmental factors like smoking, pollution and pesticides, “free radicals” are formed. These radicals are unstable molecules that react very easily with other, essential molecules in the human body such as fat, proteins and DNA. All organic and inorganic materials consist of atoms that are bound together to form molecules. For an atom to stay balanced, it needs to have the same number of protons and electrons. If it is not balanced, it will tend to steal or provide electrons to other atoms, thereby changing their chemical structure – making them free radicals that will perform the same actions. This causes a chain reaction that could lead to the destruction of cells within our bodies.
Antioxidants are foods that have the ability to neutralize the free radicals within the body by either receiving or providing the required electron to stabilize the atom. Since the antioxidant becomes inactive after donating its electron to the atom, it is essential that we continue to replenish the body’s electrons on a regular basis. A number of studies conducted all over the world show that photochemicals with antioxidant activity may help reduce the risk of cancer and also help in improving and maintaining overall health.
There are a variety of types of raisins – sultana, monukka, zante currant, muscant, Malaga and Thompson seedless, which are all beneficial for a person’s health due to their antioxidant properties, with the added advantage of having exceptional taste – making raisins a favorite ingredient for a number of dishes prepared all over the world. Raisins are known to be extremely effective with constipation as the fiber content helps absorb water, thus providing significant relief. Anemic individuals may also find a high intake of raisins to be quite beneficial as they contain plenty of vitamin B complex, which helps in the formation of blood. Raisins also contain a composition of polyphenolic phytonutrients that are extremely good for ocular health as they provide added protection for the eyes from damages that could be caused by free radicals. Raisins also help considerably with dental care, treating a fever, sexual weakness, bone health and weight gain.