health
Rich in proteins, vitamins, minerals and dietary fibre, dry fruits make for a delicious and healthy snack. Health experts recommend eating dry fruits like almonds, walnuts and pistachios to stay healthy. Dry fruits are classified as Superfoods because they have a higher nutritional value when compared to other food items. Even small portions of a superfood can supply abundant nutrition in form of nutrients, vitamins, minerals and proteins. Many a time superfoods can be termed as such because of some special characteristic or benefit that they provide such as it provides relief from some ailment or disease, enhances immunity, reduces blood pressure, sugar or cholesterol and much more. Due to various benefits health and otherwise that different dry fruits provides many a time dry fruits are also termed as superfoods. Dry fruits just like berries and nuts are high on antioxidants. They are also high in other nutrients and some dry fruits are believed to have unique properties such as prevent ageing, sharpen intellect and much more. Most dry fruits are rich in minerals, proteins, fibre and vitamins. Add to that they are tasty and delicious too. Dry fruits are excellent and healthy substitute for daily snacks. Consumption of dry fruits enhances energy and stamina; also as they are rich in fibre which means better digestion and overall health. Nuts are a great source of protein and iron especially if you are a vegetarian. Dry Fruits are also rich source of Calcium, Copper, Iron, Magnesium, Potassium, Phosphorus, Protein, Riboflavin, Vitamin A-C-E-K-B6 and Zinc. This means healthy bones, muscles, nerves, teeth and skin. This also means protection from anaemia, heart diseases, high cholesterol, strengthening of immune system and much more.
There are many dry fruits that a person can and should include in his daily diet. Some of these are good others are still better. So which are the best and most beneficial dry fruits.
Almonds: Almonds are incredibly popular due to their flavour, impressive nutrient profile, and relatively cheap cost. They have zero cholesterol and are rich in antioxidants and fibre. Besides that they are great for skin, hair and overall health. They are also believed to provide protection from heart and many other diseases. You can eat them raw or roasted, and they’re often made into almond butter, almond flour, and almond milk.
Cashews: Cashews have a crunchy texture and creamy mouth feel that pair well with both savoury and sweet dishes. They are rich in Vitamin E and B6. They also contain ample protein, potassium, mono-unsaturated fat and fibre. Walnuts are third on our list because they are loaded with Omega-3 fatty acids, proteins, fibres, anti-oxidants, vitamins and minerals. You can eat them raw, roasted, or as nut butter.
Walnuts: Walnuts are linked to multiple health benefits and have an impressive nutrient profile. Walnuts are a single-seeded, hard stone-like fruit high in omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and proteins. Because of their numerous benefits, you can incorporate them into your daily diet. Walnuts’ fatty acids may help you lose weight and keep your heart healthy.
Pistachios: Pistachios can be a good option for people who have a habit of constantly eating. Pistachio can help you feel fuller for longer by suppressing your appetite. It contains oleic acid and antioxidants, as well as carotenes, vitamin E, copper, manganese, potassium, calcium, magnesium, iron, selenium, zinc, and polyphenol antioxidants. This dry fruit in the shape of a heart has anti-inflammatory properties. These vibrant nuts are packed with nutrients but lower in calories and fat than many other nuts.
Raisins: Raisins are dried grapes with a sweet and sour flavour. It is a good source of iron and can help treat anaemia. A daily handful of raisins can be beneficial to your digestive system and aid in acidity and constipation treatment.
These dry fruits are rich in vitamins and proteins; they also boost immunity and prevent lifestyle diseases such as cholesterol and diabetes.
Pecans: Pecans are mild nuts that are popular for cakes, pies, salads, and grain dishes. Like other nuts, pecans are rich in healthy fats, fibre, vitamins, and minerals. They’re a good source of the mineral zinc, which plays an important role in immune function, wound healing, DNA synthesis, and growth and development. Additionally, some research suggests that pecans benefit heart health.
Whether you consume dry fruits as is or top those up on breakfast cereals or in healthy snacks, their nutritional and health benefits come plenty. Only a handful of dry fruits per day are more than enough to meet one’s daily need. The best way to include dry fruits in one’s daily diet is to use them as snacks or to include them in daily cooking and in various dishes as they are versatile and delicious.