12 Best Benefits Of Dry Grapes For Skin, Hair And Health

While most of you might enjoy eating the different kinds of grapes, dry grapes or raisins are another popular way to include grapes in your meals and diets! It is made by drying the grapes for about 3 weeks in the sun or driers. The ones dried in the vine are called vine-dried grapes. Dry grapes are usually available as golden, green, or black. While grapes are usually consumed raw or added to fruit salads and smoothies, raisins or sun-dried grapes can be cooked and added into gravies, sweets, and desserts as well! To know more about dry grapes and ways to include them in your diet, keep reading!

Know Your Ingredient: Dry Grape

What Is It?
Commonly known as a raisin, it is produced commercially by drying harvested a grape berry.

What Are Its Benefits?
It may reduces constipation, aid in weight gain, lower hypertension, prevent cancer, treat anemia, strengthen bones, and enhance hair health.

Who Can Consume It?
It is safe for all except for those who have mold allergy.

How Often?
Dry grapes can be consumed daily but in moderation.

Caution
Overconsumption may trigger unwanted weight gain and raise blood sugar levels.

Types Of Dried Grapes

A dried grape is a dehydrated grape berry. There are several types of dried grapes; some of the common ones are:

• Raisins: They are plump, wrinkled, and have a sweet flavor.
• Sultanas: They are smaller and more elongated than raisins. They are golden in color and have a slightly tangy flavor.
• Currants: They have a dark, almost black color. They have a sweet and slightly tart flavor.

The choice of which type to use often depends on a recipe’s desired flavor and texture. However, they are all packed with nutrition. Learn more about them below.

Nutritional Value Of Dry Grapes

Dried grapes, or raisins, are a rich source of fiber and phytochemicals that provide multiple health benefits despite their high sugar content. They also have strong antibacterial properties that may help maintain good oral health (1). According to the USDA, 100 g of dried grapes contains the following nutrients (2):

• Calories – 299 kcal
• Carbohydrates – 79.32 g
• Sugar – 65.18 g
• Protein – 3.3 g
• Fats – 0.25 g
• Dietary fiber – 4.5 g
• Calcium – 62 mg
• Magnesium – 36 mg
• Phosphorous – 98 mg
• Potassium – 744 mg
• Sodium – 26 mg
• Iron – 1.79 mg
• Vitamin C – 2.3 mg

Check out the next section to learn how these nutrients improve your skin, hair, and overall health.

Benefits Of Dry Grapes

Check out here some of the most common dry grapes and black raisins benefits.

1. Constipation

These dried fruits swell in the blood due to the body’s natural fluids. This helps the food to move in the intestinal tract and provides relief from constipation. Dry grapes contain insoluble fiber that reduces constipation (3).

Trivia

As per Ayurveda, the lungs, mind, brain, and bowels can benefit from raisins soaked in water overnight. They have protective and nourishing effects.

2. Weight Gain

Dehydrated grapes are the best for gaining weight in a healthy way as they contain fructose and glucose energy. They are mostly consumed by athletes or body builders for a boost of energy or for weight gain without accumulating unhealthy fats. It contains many vitamins, amino acids, minerals, selenium, phosphorus, nutrients and proteins. This also improves immunity.

3. Cancer Prevention

Dry grapes are rich in catechins, known as polyphenolic antioxidants in blood (1). This helps you to get rid of free radicals to improve the organ systems and the cells. Free radicals lead to growth of cancer cells. Dry grapes in your diet can increase the level of powerful antioxidants and prevent cancer or slow down its process (4).

4. Hypertension

Dry or shriveled grapes are believed to reduce blood pressure and protect heart health. Dry grapes may reduce blood sugar along with hypertensionⁱ  Also known as high blood pressure; a condition where an elevated blood force hits the artery walls, causing heart damage in the long run. (5). Dry grapes are beneficial due to the high level of potassium which helps to reduce the tension of the blood vessels and lowers blood pressure. This also contains dietary fiber that reduces blood vessel stiffness and hypertension. You can also try black raisins. Consuming black raisins benefits your health in a similar way and also supports your heart health.

5. Diabetes

Dry grapes lower the insulin level after eating a meal, in patients with diabetes. It helps sugar absorption and makes it stable to reduce the health complications for both types of diabetes. This helps to regulate leptin and ghrelin, which helps you feel either hungry or full. Hence it is useful for maintaining a healthy diet and to prevent overeating.

6. Anemia

Dry grapes are a rich source of iron that helps to treat anemia (6). It also has Vitamin-B complex which is required for new blood formation. This also has good copper content that is essential for red blood cells formation.

Trivia

In certain countries, the dark, dried grapes are referred to as ‘raisins,’ the yellow ones as ‘sultanas,’ and the dried Black Corinth grapes are referred to as ‘currants.’

7. Fever

Dry grapes have germicidal, antibiotic, and antioxidant properties, which can cure fevers and fight viral and bacterial infections (1).

8. Sexual Dysfunction

Dry grapes stimulate the libidoⁱ  Refers to a human being’s overall sexual desire or sex drive. It is influenced by psychological, biological, and social factors. and boost arousal, as it contains Arginine. This is a vital nutrient for treating erectile dysfunctions, increasing chances of conception and sperm count. In India, the bride and the groom are given a glass of milk boiled with dry grapes and saffron on the wedding night for the best sexual experience and for an energy boost.

9. Acidosis

Acidosis is an increased toxicity of the blood or gases in the respiratory system which is very harmful for the body. This causes many health problems like hair loss, heart diseases and damage to the internal organs, arthritisⁱ  Chronic joint pain and stiffness leading to swelling and tenderness of one or more joints of the hands and feet. , goutⁱ  A complex form of arthritis characterized by severe pain, redness and tenderness due to excess uric acid deposits in the joints. , renal calculiⁱ  Also called kidney stones, these are solid mineral and salt deposits inside the kidneys compressed into stones. , boils, skin disease, tumors and even cancer. Dry grapes contain potassium and magnesium that are best natural antacids which neutralize the acids and check acidosis.

10. Bone Health

Calcium in dry grapes is an essential element of our bones. This also contains boron, required for bone formation and absorption of calcium. Boron helps to prevent osteoporosisⁱ  Lack of calcium, low bone density, and eating disorders of a human being leads to a condition where bones become weak and brittle. during menopause and is good for the bones and joints. Potassium is also found in dry grapes that strengthens the bones and aids bone growth (7).

11. Face Health

Dry grapes can help you maintain your pearly white eyes, prevent tooth decay and reduce cavities. It is an excellent source of Vitamin A for eye protection and vision-related problems. This can give you healthy and beautiful skin since it has resveratrol, an antioxidant which slows down the progress of skin ageing. Dry grapes contain potassium, magnesium, phosphorous and iron which boost blood circulation for skin glow.

12. Hair Health

Dry grapes are high on iron that promotes a healthy circulatory system. Circulation and blood flow is essential for hair growth as it stimulates the hair follicles. It is also a good source of Vitamin C that improves iron absorption.

Trivia

The word ‘raisin’’ originates from the Latin word ‘racemus,’ meaning ‘a bunch of grapes.’

Whether raisins, sultanas, or currants, dry grapes can add a burst of sweetness and texture to a variety of dishes. Learn more in the next section.

Dry Grapes Recipes And Usage

Here are some ideas for incorporating dry grapes into your recipes:

• Combine dried grapes with fresh fruits like apples, pears, and berries for a nutritious fruit salad.
• Add a handful of raisins to your oatmeal.
• You can incorporate raisins into baked goods like cakes, cookies, and bread.
• Combine dried grapes with nuts, seeds, and chocolate chips for a healthy trail mix.
• Add dried grapes to your yogurt.

Experiment with different types of dried grapes and find your favorite combinations.

Infographic: 6 Reasons To Include Dry Grapes In Your Diet

Dry grapes or raisins are an excellent and natural way to stay healthy. Packed with essential minerals, vitamins, and proteins, they are a great way to boost your well-being in many ways. From promoting bone health to aiding healthy weight gain, these tiny morsels of deliciousness are a great addition to any diet. Take a look at the different dry grapes benefits in the infographic below.

Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the side effects of raisins?

Although raisins are generally safe to consume in moderation, their excess intake may trigger unwanted weight gain and raise blood sugar levels.

What happens if we eat soaked raisins daily?

Soaked raisins help improve digestion, ease constipation, and keep bloating at bay if included as a part of the diet daily.

How many dry grapes should one eat per day?

The intake of 80–90 grams of dried grapes or raisins per day is considered safe (1).

What are the disadvantages of soaked dry grapes?

They may cause dental caries, allergic reactions, and increased blood sugar levels (8), (9).

What are the different varieties of dry grapes available in the market?

Muscat, Thompson seedless, black corinth, flame, sultana, and golden are some varieties of dry grapes available in the market.

How should dry grapes be stored to maintain their freshness and flavor?

Dry grapes can get sticky after being refrigerated because they absorb moisture, so it is best to keep them in an airtight container at room temperature.

What are some recipes that use dry grapes as an ingredient?

Dry grapes curry, bread, and Waldorf salad are some recipes that use dry grapes as an ingredient.

What is the difference between raisins and dry grapes?

The sole difference between the two is that raisins undergo additional drying and processing to reduce some of the moisture and lengthen their shelf life.

What is the best time to consume dry grapes for maximum health benefits?

Dry grapes can be a healthy addition to your diet and can be consumed any time of the day. However, some people find that consuming them at midday boosts their metabolism.

Illustration: Best Benefits and Uses Of Dry Grapes For Skin Hair and Health

Image: Dall·E/StyleCraze Design Team

Dried grapes are a nutritious snack packed with vitamins and minerals. Check out the video given below to learn about the amazing health benefits of this delicious snack!

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Aakriti AroraCertificate In Plant-Based Nutrition

   

Aakriti Arora is a USA certified nutritionist with 3 years of experience. She is practicing in New Delhi. She has completed her graduation with Honors from the University of Delhi and Nutrition and Dietetics Certification from Cornell University.

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Tanya ChoudharyHealth & Wellness Writer

 

Tanya is an ISSA certified Specialist in Fitness & Nutrition. She specializes in writing articles on ingredients that benefit skin, hair, and health. She believes in the right health and lifestyle practices and strives to promote the same to everyone around her.

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Ravi Teja Tadimalla is a Co-Editor-in-Chief and a published author. He has been in the digital media field for over a decade. He graduated from SRM University, Chennai, and has a Professional Certificate in Food, Nutrition & Research from Wageningen University.

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Himanshi MahajanHealth & Wellness Writer

Himanshi Mahajan is a Certified Health & Nutrition Life Coach. She has a bachelor’s degree in Life Sciences from Guru Nanak Dev University and two years of experience in writing SEO-based and research-backed content across health and lifestyle genres.

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