Raisins are one of the most popular varieties of dried fruits. Its use dates back to thousands of years in history. Perhaps it is most of the most important discoveries in the world of superfoods.
Raisins are rich in many vital vitamins, nutrients, fiber, and minerals. This is one of the reasons why health experts and Doctors highly recommend its intake to their patients around the world.
Raisin water is believed to be one of the most efficient and effective ways to consume the fruit in Ayurveda. It is believed by soaking the raisins in water overnight, all or most part of its nutrients get dissolved in water, making it readily available for our body to absorb.
Ayurvedic doctors recommend consuming it on an empty stomach every morning to yield maximum benefits out of this wonderful dried fruit. Before we look into how to prepare raisin water, let us look into some of the benefits it has to offer.
Some of the known benefits of raisin water are
Enhances the functioning of Liver and Kidneys
Raisins are an excellent source of antioxidants. This is due to the presence of high level of phenolic phytochemicals. You might have known already that antioxidants reduce oxidative stress by fighting or nullifying the free radicals that can cause damage to your skin and internal organs.
Polyphenolic antioxidants like catechins present in raisins effectively reduce oxidative stress and activity of free radicals in the liver and kidneys. This directly enhances the working of the liver and kidneys. And one of the important roles of the liver and kidneys is flushing out the toxins. So, raisins not only ensures your liver and kidneys function properly, but it also takes care of the toxins that could interfere with the workings of other organs in your body.
Cleanses your gut
When you consume soaked raisins along with the water, you intake all the fiber that raisin has to offer. Raisins are a good source of both soluble and insoluble fiber which adds bulk to the stools and increases activity of the gut and helps to cleanse the gut and intestines.
Reduces the level of Bad Cholesterol
Not only raisins contain zero cholesterol its soluble fiber content helps to flush out the LDL or bad cholesterol from your body. Researchers believe this indirectly helps to increase the level of good cholesterol and prevent cardiovascular diseases.
Reduces Water Retention or Ascites
Raisins contain a good amount of potassium which helps to regulate and reduce the amount of sodium which is directly responsible for water retention. Regular consumption of raisins would keep a check on sodium levels and effectively prevents water retention.
Keeps a Check on High Blood Pressure
One of the main reasons for high blood pressure is an increased level of sodium and constricted arteries. Like mentioned before raisins is a good source of potassium which ensures sodium levels are kept at normal levels which directly impacts the blood pressure.
Another good thing about raisins is that it is a good source of magnesium. Which relaxes your muscles, and dilates the arteries and ensures the blood pressure stays in the normal range.
Offers Instant Energy Boost
Some sports experts recommend consuming raisins over energy bars or recommend energy bars that have high amounts of raisins in them. This is because 100 grams of raisins contain about 79 grams of carbohydrates which can be readily converted into energy. When you consume raisin water the first thing in the morning it gives you that instant energy boost to kickstart your day on a high note.
Furthermore, raisins are a safe alternative to energy bars as it contains zero added sugar or artificial flavors or preservatives.
Prevents Anemia
Anemia results from iron deficiency and low levels of red blood cells in the bloodstream. Your body needs iron for the production of red blood cells. However, iron is not easily absorbed by your body. Most of the iron content present in the grains and cereals are the non-heme type which your body struggles to absorb.
Also, your body needs vitamin-C to properly absorb iron. Raisins contain both Vitamin-C and iron in it which makes the iron content in this superfood to be readily available for your body. Regular consumption of raisins or raisin water is believed to fight anemia by increasing iron levels.
Enhances Dental Health
Raisins are a good source of Oleanolic acid that directly helps in preventing tooth decay. This acid also helps to keep the teeth clean by removing the unwanted germs thriving over your tooth surface.
Your teeth develop cavities due to uncontrolled growth of a couple of bacterias namely Porphyromonas gingivalis, and Streptococcus mutans. It is believed that raisin water inhibits the growth of both of these bacterias, effectively preventing the formation of cavities.
Not to forget raisins are also a good source of calcium, a primary nutrient that your teeth need to stay strong and healthy.
Boosts Libido
In Ayurveda, raisins are used to treat infertility and erectile dysfunction in men. Raisins are a good source of natural sugars which readily boosts your energy levels which is highly needed to kick start your sex drive.
Additionally, raisins improve blood circulation by dilating the blood vessels, this ensures there is increased blood flow to your reproductive organs.
Arginine present in raisins helps to improve sperm motility and helps to inhibit infertility in men.
How to Prepare Raisin Water
Make sure you wash off the raisins with clean water before consumption to remove the specks of dirt and germs that might be sticking to its surface. Also, purchase the ones from organic stores to ensure there are no pesticides present in them.
To two cups of clean lukewarm water add a handful of raisins (around 15 nos) and let it soak overnight. Ensure the top of the glass is covered.
Drink this water along with the raisins first thing in the morning after brushing your teeth and wait for 30 minutes before consuming any other foods. This ensures your body gets enough time to absorb all the nutrients and minerals present in it.