They're one of the oldest foods in human history, but raisins are attracting new attention as an optimal source for steady energy.
Raisins are a top energy source that sustain blood sugar levels longer than other other high-energy foods, but don't come with a crash after the energy runs out. If you munch on a donut, you'll be hungry again in a little while. If you munch on a little box of raisins, you won't.
The California Raisin Marketing Board says the list of health benefits associated with raisins keeps growing. In a study done on the effect of raisins on cholesterol, subjects with elevated cholesterol ate a diet high in fiber and low in fats. The diet included raisins, which are shown to contain 4 grams of fiber per one and one-half ounce serving. Those who followed the diet lowered their cholesterol levels and reduced their risk of heart disease.
Other studies show that raisins are rich in antioxidants, which help to prevent heart disease and cancer.
Research sponsored by the World Health Organization shows that raisins are one of the top sources of boron in our diets. Boron has beneficial effects on the bones and the brain and helps to metabolize nutrients like calcium, copper, and nitrogen.
If you want to control your blood pressure, raisins are one of the best snacks for you. They're a good source of potassium, a mineral that has been shown to lower high blood pressure.
They also don't spoil. Put a box or two in your lunch box or drawer.
Macaroni-raisin salad
Boil 2 cups of small elbow macaroni and let cool. Add 1/2 cup raisins, 1 cup chopped green onions, 1 cup chopped celery, 1 cup cubed cheddar cheese, 1 hard boiled egg, 1/2 cup low-fat mayonnaise, 1/2 cup sour cream, 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce, the juice from 1/2 lemon, and 1/4 teaspoon each dried basil, oregano, and tarragon. Salt and pepper to taste. Chill for 2 hours. Serves 8.
