The tradition of dried fruit – fruit that has been dried naturally, sun-dried or through dehydrators – dates back to the fourth millennium BC in Mesopotamia, now known as Ethiopia. Dried fruit is popular worldwide because of its sweet taste, long shelf life and surprisingly nutritious content. In essence, dried fruits retain most of their important nutrition content, like proactive biological ingredients and they help improve diet and reduce the risk of chronic diseases.
Dried fruits like figs, dates, raisons and apricots
have been associated with typical Mediterranean background. They have always
been a part of the staple diets in this region. Most dried fruits are an
excellent source of vitamins and nutrients but it also important to remember
that in order to digest dried fruits, which has a very low water content, you
need to increase your intake of water or you could have serious digestive
problems. 
Now, moving on to the importance of these delightful
natural snacks! First up, apples are a good source of antioxidants (which help
reduce chances of cancer) and dietary fiber (which helps in digestion). Dried
apricots contain dietary fibers, iron and vitamins A and C. Figs, a popular favorite
in Pakistan, is a high potency dried fruit with elevated contents of iron,
potassium and folic acid. If you’re looking for a completely fat-free, healthy,
sugary snack, you should seriously consider raisins as they have a low sodium,
cholesterol and fat content and are high in fiber. Blueberries are also
surprisingly very helpful; they are excellent source of vitamins A, C and E
which are essential for a healthy nervous system.
Dried fruits are also helpful in skin treatments.
One of the first and foremost examples that come to mind is almonds. They have
a very high content of fatty acids, fiber and proteins, so they are extremely
helpful in treating acne and also make for excellent face packs. Raisins are
recommended for people suffering from anemia because of their high content of
potassium, magnesium, phosphorus and iron. Walnuts, with their high content of
fatty acids, help greatly in treating and improving the texture of dry skin.
Cashews have multiple benefits. If used in moderation, they can actually help
you lose weight. Other than that, cashew oil is used in a lot of cosmetics as
they help prevent tans and skin damage, and also heals and nourishes cracked
heels. They also act as anti-aging agents.
All in all, dried fruits are major sources of
nutrients and they best part is that they are all natural, if you don’t buy the
ones you see at super markets shelves as they have been processed to an extent.
You can also get hold of dry fruits on your own and use them for skin and
health benefits for yourself.
Written By:
Ridah Zafar
Ridah Zafar