Although dried fruits are high in calories, they have plenty of vital minerals, vitamins and dietary fiber. They are a rich source of protein and pure nutrients. They are truly energy boosters. Carrying some in your bag is a good idea!
To be specific, dried fruits can be of two types, the fruits that are actually "dried" naturally or mechanically, and the once that are available in the form of nuts or seeds. So friends, lets see what some of our friends have to offer us:
Almonds: Almonds are one of the most nutritious of all nuts. King of all nuts! They are a rich source of carbohydrates, proteins, fats, minerals like Calcium, Iron, Magnesium, Phosphorous, Vitamins E and B-complex, sugars and dietary fiber. They are also rich in amino acids. They also have been proven to enhance memory.
Cashews: Everybody loves roasted and salted cashews. They are a popular snack. They are a good source of carbohydrates, proteins, fats, minerals, and vitamin B-complex.
Pistachio: The aroma says it all. Pistachios are very high in Vitamin B6. They are a good source of sugars, dietary fiber, fats, and minerals.
Walnuts: These are the biggest source of fats and Manganese! Walnuts contain the highest amount of antioxidants. They are very rich source of carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals.
Groundnuts (Peanuts): Yaaay! The most favorite and affordable too! Eat them raw, cook them, make into powder, roasted and salted peanuts - a ready snack! Available throughout the world. Peanuts are a good source of niacin, folate, dietary fiber, magnesium, vitamin E, manganese and phosphorous.
Dried Figs: Rich in carbohydrates, they are very tasty and rich source of energy. Dried figs are a good source of vitamin B-complex and minerals
Dates: Sweet!!! Dates are a good source of carbohydrates, vitamins and minerals. Two dates daily keeps anemia away! They are a good source of iron which is important for maintaining balanced levels of hemoglobin in the body.
Raisins: They are a good source of carbohydrates, iron and potassium. The sweet and slightly tangy flavor makes them an ideal topping on sweets!
P. S.: A short and sweet recipe for memory and energy: Soak overnight two almonds and five raisins in half a cup of water. Drink the water and eat the soaked almonds and raisins in the morning. It is believed that almonds are beneficial for improving memory and raisins provide the necessary iron and sugars and hence give a morning "kick" of glucose!
