Dried fruit is as healthy as its fresh equivalent and can help combat cancer, metabolic disease, and heart problems, researchers have found. They are also a good source of fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Dr. Daniel Gallaher, of the University of Minnesota, said: ‘Dried fruits are great sources of total and soluble fiber in the diet.
Countries including the UK and the USA already put the two on a par in formal dietary recommendations, but The World Nut and Dried Fruit Congress have called for dried fruit to be recognized as equal to fresh fruits in dietary advice across the globe.
OSTEOPOROSIS: Raisins
Raisins are one of the richest sources of boron, a mineral documented to reduce bone loss in postmenopausal women. Sprinkle a handful into calcium-rich yogurt for optimum bone benefits and add pecans, another food rich in boron.
FATIGUE: Dates
Feeling exhausted can make you crave sugary snacks. Dates are a great alternative as they have a relatively low glycaemic index (GI), which means they release their sugars slowly and keep energy levels steady, despite their intense sweetness. Eat with protein — a handful of walnuts, for example — to keep you feeling full.
GOUT: Dried cherries
The anthocyanins in cherries, particularly the sour, or tart, the type that is found in most health stores, may be beneficial for a range of inflammatory-related conditions, including arthritis, gout, and post-exercise muscle soreness.
