Dry Fruits

We all know about the nutritional value of fresh and juicy fruits. They are rich in vitamins, fibres, minerals etc. Well we cannot deny the value of dry fruits which are equally beneficial for our good health specially during winters. Let’s see some of them along with their phenomenal health benefits specially for women.

Almonds

To me it’s a king of dry fruits as it’s rich in Vitamin E and B2, has got fats, proteins, fibres, minerals like magnesium and copper etc. It’s rich in antioxidants which engulf the free radicals and hence prevent different kinds of inflammation that harm our body in one way or other. Magnesium is really very important in reducing blood pressure levels and maintains them to normal, it also keeps blood sugar levels under control. Vitamin E that’s present in almonds, is good for skin and also helps strengthening your immune system. Riboflavin (Vitamin B2) is also very important for good skin and assists in metabolism of carbohydrates, proteins and fats to provide us with energy. Copper is very good for iron absorption hence it helps in red blood cells production and lowers the risk of anaemia specially in women, copper also helps in collagen formation which is very important for bones hence it lowers the risk of osteoporosis specially in women.

Pistachios

These beautiful green coloured dry fruits are not only very tasty but they have got so many golden nutrients in them. Let’s see what are they and how are they beneficial for our body. Pistachios are rich in potassium that’s good for heart health, keeps your blood pressure level normal. Beside this it has also got fibres which is naturally good to maintain good cholesterol level. It’s rich in antioxidants. Overall it’s a good choice in winter season to keep your overall health good.

Cashews

Like that of other two nuts, these cashews are also rich in many useful nutrients such as fibres, minerals like zinc, magnesium, iron and copper. Different vitamins like thiamine (B1) and pyridoxine (B6) are also found which help in metabolism as well as strengthen our immune system. A fat soluble vitamin, Vitamin K is also there in cashews that is well known for its clotting properties. 

Walnuts

Well they are somewhat shaped like that of our brains. It’s said that they are good for brain functioning. Walnuts contain fibres, vitamins, omega 3 fatty acids, minerals and yes antioxidants. They are good for reducing bad cholesterol, lower blood glucose level, help maintaining blood pressure. They also reduce chances of cancer.

Raisins

Raisins are sweet in taste as compared to the previously mentioned dry fruits. Raisins are rich in different nutrients like carbohydrates, proteins, fats, minerals like potassium, iron, copper. Beside this vitamin B6 is also found in them. Fibres that are present in raisins help lowering the bad cholesterol (LDL) which is proven good for lowering heart health risks. Overall it’s a good choice to maintain blood pressure, avoid strokes and CVDs. 

Dried apricots

These dried apricots are not only very tasty but also good for our health, obviously just because of the healthy nutrients like fibres, Vitamin A, certain minerals like potassium and calcium. This way they are again good for overall heart health, bones, eyes, skin etc. 

Risks

Nothing comes without risks. Some of the dry fruits like cashews may cause certain types of allergies. Due to high calories, if dry fruits are consumed in much quantity then they may cause problems like abdominal discomfort etc.

General benefits of dry fruits

• Good for heart
• Healthy for skin, gut, eyes, brain
• Weight loss
• Good source of fibres and antioxidants 

Well if we consume these dried fruits in a limited quantity then we can enjoy most of the health benefits that have already been discussed. 

A cool tip

You can take them with tea in the evening and you can use them in the desserts too.

Enjoy winters with dry fruits!