Why is it important to include dried fruits in our diet!

Zee Media Bureau/Salome Phelamei

There is no truth about fresh fruits being better and healthier than the dried ones. What is important is whether the fruit contains the necessary vitamins and minerals that your body requires, where it is from and how it is grown or dried.

Instead, dry fruits have some advantages over fresh fruits - longer shelf life and you can carry them anywhere you like. Also, microorganisms which might have caused you sick when ingested are no longer alive in dry fruits, as most of them sometimes need to be boiled before being dried.

While dried fruits without additives give immense health benefits, consuming dried fruits should be in moderation if you are on a diet plan as they contain significantly more calories than the fresh ones.

Below are three reasons why we should include dried fruits in our diet:

Antioxidants: Research has revealed about some dried fruits being a good source of certain antioxidants that fight against many diseases like cancers, heart disease, osteoporosis, diabetes and degenerative diseases of the brain.

Fiber: Dried fruits are believed to contain more fiber than the same-sized serving of the fresh fruits. Fiber is important for running our digestive system smoothly. Dried fruits such as apricots and raisins are a good source of fiber. Studies suggest that fiber can also help prevent obesity, heart disease and some forms of cancer.

Cholesterol/Blood pressure: Dried fruits like cashew nuts, almonds, pistachios and raisins are considered to be very effective in controlling cholesterol while rendering us with a healthy body. Eating these fruits not only help in reducing high cholesterol levels, but also assist in promoting blood circulation.

They also help in lowering blood pressure to a great level.