Superfruit VS low sugar intake

karenzephyr

my small sprinkling of raisins in the morning is making my ability to stay under 15g of sugar impossible. I have to either give up the raisins- which are so great - or up my sugar to allow for them and not much more. I listed some of the health benefits, 1. being a questionable benefit...and also the problem...

1. Increases Your Supply of Energy
If you are an athlete or a bodybuilder who needs a good source of energy and something to bulk up your body to a certain weight, raisins are good for you because they are loaded with sugars, specifically fructose and glucose. Eating raisins also promotes the efficient absorption of vitamins, proteins and other nutrients in your body. Therefore, they also help in building up your immune system.
2. Aids Digestion
Upon ingestion, fibers in raisins swell as they absorb water, thus promoting a laxative effect and thereby relieving constipation. Regular intake of raisins helps in maintaining regular bowel movement, with the fibers sweeping away the toxins and waste materials from the gastrointestinal tract.
3. Enhances Mouth Health
Unlike candies, raisins contain oleanolic acid, which provides protection against cavities and tooth decay, and prevents the growth of harmful bacteria that can cause gingivitis and other periodontal diseases.
4. Enhances Bone Health
Raisins are a rich source of calcium, which is necessary to strengthen bones and teeth. A micronutrient that is abundant in raisins–boron–aids in calcium absorption and bone formation. If you are a postmenopausal woman, raisins are a good snack for you because the calcium and boron present in them help prevent the development of osteoporosis.
5. Body Acidity Reduction
The potassium and magnesium contents of raisins help reduce acidity (an abnormal metabolic condition known as acidosis) and remove toxins from the body, which may cause diseases such as arthritis, gout, kidney stones and heart disease.
6. Treats Infections
Raisins contain substances called polyphenolic phytonutrients that have anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. These polyphenols have been found to lower fevers by killing the bacteria that causes existing infections.
7. Protects Eyes
The polyphenolic phytonutrients in raisins also possess antioxidant properties that protect the eyes from harmful free radicals that may cause the development of cataracts, macular degeneration, blindness and other visual disorders.
8. Treats Anemia
Raisins are rich in iron and copper, which are necessary in the formation of red blood cells. Raisins also help to correct iron deficiency anemia and promote blood clotting during wound healing.
9. Cancer Prevention
The polyphenolic antioxidant in raisins, known as catechin, provides protection against free radicals, which causes the development of tumors, specifically colon cancer.
10. Stimulates Sexuality
You could find natural stimulation through regular consumption of raisins. An amino acid in raisins called arginine helps to arouse the libido.

So- any advice about raisins? Any suitable replacement? I love them on my cereal, but is it worth it?

HilarieXcore

Reread everything you just said about them.
I don't think upping your sugar for all those benefits is a big deal.

vim_n_vigor

I wouldn't worry about a small amount of raisins. We all have some food that really makes us happy and helps us through the day. It seems like this may be your food, and really, a small amount of raisins isn't going to hurt you. As you noted, there are a lot of health benefits to eating them.

geraldm55

based on what I just read, I'm going to start eating a few raisins. thanks for the info and I'd say stick with a good thing especially if you enjoy them.

iamhealingmyself

Sounds like it's more than worth it to me - but then - it depends on what your goals are too. I'm not into muscle cutting/sculpting so for me the extra sugars don't matter. I don't beat myself up if the sugars are from fruits (fresh, unprocessed that is). If that's your only source of sugars and you're not sculpting muslce then I wouldn't fret about it. Enjoy your raisins and all they have to offer. Of course, keep in mind, we're not meant to eat the entire box in a day either so.... moderation is key.

FaithsVegWorkout

Raisins are good for you! Eat them!