Almonds are among the earliest cultivated foods in history.

Almonds are thought to have originated in China and Central Asia. Explorers brought almonds back with them, and before long almond trees flourished. Almonds, like most nuts, were thought to have too much fat to be a healthy snack. But research has debunked that belief as an old myth. One study showed that three ounces of almonds a day actually lowered a person's cholesterol by 14 percent. Munching on almonds helps people feel satisfied and less inclined to overeat at dinner! Ninety percent of the fat in almonds is unsaturated fat, and frequent consumption, as a result, could help lower blood cholesterol levels. Of course, since almonds are a plant based food, they contain no cholesterol. Almonds are loaded with protein, fiber, calcium, magnesium, potassium, vitamin E and other antioxidants and phytochemicals. Almonds have been shown to promote good health, especially when they are part of a healthful diet consisting of fruits, vegetables, and low fat whole grain products. According to one study, almonds are a well balanced food. They contain the right kind of fats-monounsaturated and some polyunsaturated, so they help lower low-density lipoprotein (LDL), the bad cholesterol, while not touching the high-density, or good cholesterol levels. The folic acid in almonds is believed to help lower levels of homocystein, the amino acid that is thought to contribute to the buildup of fatty plaque in the arteries. And studies have shown links between nut (especially almond) consumption and lower risk of cancer, diabetes, Alzheimer's disease, and other chronic illnesses. In a nutshell, almonds are an excellent source of fiber, vitamin E, zinc, selenium, copper, potassium, phosphorus, biotin, riboflavin, niacin and iron. Almonds are the most nutritious of all nuts.

Benefits Of Cashews Cashews belong to the flowering plant family Anacardiaceae and the order Sapindales. The popular cashew nuts are actually the kidney shaped seeds that are found attached to the bottom of the fruit of the tree called the cashew apple. The nut is renowned for its delicate flavor and is a popular special garnish for a number of salads and fry dishes. The nut is also used to make the deliciously mellow nut butter which is a rage in many countries around the world like Brazil and Nigeria. Although considered native to the coastal areas of the north-eastern zone of Brazil, cashews are regarded as delicacies and are widely appreciated by people all over the world. In the 16th century, Portuguese explorers introduced cashews into India and some African countries. Today, India, Tanzania, Mozambique, Nigeria and Brazil are the leading producers of cashew. To know more about the diverse health benefits of this variety of plant, read the pointers given below in this article. Health Benefits Of Eating Cashew Nuts Consumption of cashews is very important for the prevention of gallstones in the human body. So, make sure to have a handful of cashew nut every day as a snack or toss in some of them on your salad or over your oatmeal. It is a known fact that the two minerals, calcium and magnesium are very essential for the production and maintenance of healthy bones. Magnesium is mainly used to give physical structure to the bones. Some magnesium is also stored on the surface of the bones for the body to utilize whenever necessary. The mineral magnesium is also very important to regulate the tone of nerves and muscles. This is achieved by balancing the action of the mineral calcium by acting as a natural calcium channel blocker. They help to prevent the excessive gushing of calcium into the nerve cells and activating the nerves. Thus, they play a major role in keeping the nerves relaxed and prevent their over contraction. Lack of adequate amounts of calcium in the body can lead to conditions like muscle spasms, migraine headaches and even high blood pressures. Apart from this, they also help to prevent muscle tensions, soreness, and fatigue and are especially beneficial for women suffering from menopausal sleep disturbances. Another mineral in which cashews are rich in is copper. Being an important constituent of many enzymes, copper aids in a number

of physiological processes in the human body. It is especially beneficial in the removal of certain harmful free radicals from the body, aids in the utilization of iron, helps in the production of skin and melanin (hair pigment) and is important for the proper development of bones and connective tissues. Copper is a vital constituent of the enzyme, superoxide dismutase whose main function is to help in the processes of energy production and antioxidant defenses. It is also necessary for the activity of the enzyme lysyl oxidase which provides flexibility to blood vessels, joints and bones. Apart from the diverse advantages of copper mentioned above, the mineral helps to avoid certain conditions like brain disturbances, osteoporosis, iron deficiency anemia, rheumatoid arthritis and irregular heartbeats. Contrary to the popular belief that regular consumption of cashew nuts can lead to weight gain, recent studies have indicated that such theories and misconceptions are groundless. In fact, people who consume cashews twice a week are less likely to gain weight as compared to the ones that never eat them. As cashews are a very good source of vitamin K, they help to prevent blood coagulation and the conditions associated with it. Cashews are also regarded as powerful diuretics.

Health Benefits of Consuming Dates Dates are free from cholesterol and contain very low fat. Dates are rich in vitamins and minerals. 2. They are rich source of protein, dietary fiber and rich in vitamin B1, B2, B3 and B5 along with vitamin A1 and C. 3. It helps improve the digestive system as it contains soluble and insoluble fibers and different kinds of amino acids. 4. Dates are great energy boosters as they contain natural sugars like glucose, sucrose and fructose. To get more advantage add dates to milk and make it a very nutritious snack. Dates are very low in calories and are extremely suitable for health conscious people. 5. Dates are rich in potassium and reduced in sodium. This helps regulate a healthy nervous system. Researches have revealed the fact that potassium intake up to a certain extent can reduce risk of stroke. Dates also help in lowering of the LDL cholesterol. 6. Dates have high iron content and are very useful in treating anemia. The patients can eat many dates for better advantages. Dates also have fluorine that slows down the process of tooth decay. 7. It helps people suffering from constipation. Soak dates overnight and take it along with water to have added advantage. 8. It helps increase ones sexual stamina. Soak one handful of dates in goats milk overnight. In the morning grind the dates in the milk and add honey and cardamom powder and drink it. 9. Dates help in weight gain and are beneficial for those who suffer from over slimming problem. Dates are excellent for alcoholic intoxication. 10. Cures abdominal cancer. The best thing is that it does not have any side effect on the body and is completely natural as well as it works better than medicine. It also helps in improving eye sight and helps in curing night blindness as well. Dates can be chipped and sprinkled on sweet dishes, cakes and puddings and this enhances the state of the dish too. Selection of dates is very easy and you can have good ones if they appear fleshy and evenly coloured. Make sure there is no artificial sugar coating. Wash the dates properly before you eat because dust accumulates on the dates easily. In addition to all these, storing dates is not a big deal. They are dry fruits and so you do not have to face hassles to store them. Dates can be introduced in daily diet in any form. You can introduce it in the form of snacks. Adding dates in any form makes the food tasty and

healthy too. It fills anyone with energy no matter how tired he is. Keeping in mind the health benefits of dates, one should take utmost care while choosing the right quality of dates. Do not forget to wash the dates thoroughly so that the dust is cleaned properly before consumption. Buy and consume only those dates that are properly packed and processed. No matter how beneficial eatables are, you need to take care while choosing them and so go for the good ones even if you have to pay a little bit more for that.

Health benefits of Pistachios Pistachios are rich source of energy; 100 g of nuts contain 557 calories. Nonetheless, the nuts contain many health benefiting nutrients, minerals, antioxidants and vitamins that are essential for optimum health. The nuts are rich in mono-unsaturated fatty acids like oleic acid and an excellent source of antioxidants. Regular intake of pistachios in the diet help to lower total as well as bad LDL cholesterol and increase good HDL cholesterol levels in the blood. Research studies suggest that Mediterranean diet that is rich in dietary fiber, monounsaturated fatty acids, and antioxidants help to prevent coronary artery disease and strokes by favoring healthy blood lipid profile. They are rich source of many phyto-chemical substances that may contribute to their overall antioxidant activity, including carotenes, vitamin E, and polyphenolic antioxidant compounds. Research studies have been suggestive of that these compounds help body remove toxic oxygen free radicals and thus, protect body from diseases, cancers, as well as infections. Pistachios are an excellent source of vitamin-E, especially rich in gamma-tocopherol; contain about 23g per100 g. vitamin E is a powerful lipid soluble antioxidant, essential for maintaining the integrity of cell membrane of mucus membranes and skin; offers protection from harmful oxygen free radicals. The nuts are packed with many important B-complex groups of vitamins such as riboflavin, niacin, thiamin, pantothenic acid, vitamin B-6, and folates. These nuts are storehouse of minerals like copper, manganese, potassium, calcium, iron, magnesium, zinc, and selenium. 100 g nuts provide 144% of daily-recommended levels of copper. Copper is an essential trace mineral that is required in neurotransmission, metabolism, as well as red blood cell (RBC) synthesis. Pistachio nut oil has flavorful nutty aroma and has an excellent emollient properties. It helps to keep skin well protected from dryness. It has also been used in cooking, and as carrier or base

oil in traditional medicines in massage therapy, aromatherapy, in pharmaceutical, and cosmetic industry. Just a hand full of pistachios a day provides enough recommended levels of phenolic anti-oxidants, minerals, vitamins, and protein.

What are Raisins ( Kismis ) Health Benefits? by Arome on Wednesday, June 22, 2011 at 9:54pm Health: Raisins What are Raisins ( Kismis ) Health Benefits? | Raisins Nutrition and Vitamins Values | Kismis Health Benefits Raisins are dried grapes. They are produced in many regions of the world, such as Armenia, the United States, Australia, Chile, Argentina,

Macedonia, Mexico, Greece, Syria, Turkey, India, Iran, Pakistan, Iraq, China, Afghanistan, Togo, and Jamaica, as well as South Africa and

Southern and Eastern Europe. Raisins may be eaten raw or used in cooking and baking.The phenols found in this dried form of fruit raisins

have potent antioxidant benefits which help to scavenge free radicals from the body and decrease the oxidative stress. Other compounds

known as flavaniods are least affected also have potent health benefits. Raisins are also rich in trace mineral, boron which is critical to health.

The health benefit of raisins is that they are an antioxidant. These help keep the blood clean and flowing. They get rid of all unclean impurities in

the blood, raisins cant do the job alone, there are other fruits and juices that act as antioxidants and together they can cleanse the blood and

make you healthier. Raisins are said to beneficial for bone density. The minerals in raisins in conjunction with estrogen in women help make

bones stronger and ward off osteoporosis.Raisins are also great for healthy gums and teeth. Though raisins are sticky and very sweet, they do

not cause tooth decay ore gum disease. The key ingredient in raisins that help promote good oral hygiene is called phytonutrients and olenolic

acid. Raisins are also a preventative measure for macular degeneration, which is the health of your eyesight. Just as carrots are good for your

eyesight as are raisins. Overall, raisins help with eyesight, oral hygiene and they act as antioxidants. Raisins are sweet and great tasting and

promote good health.

Raisins can be defined as grapes that have been dried and have a sweet taste, with a wrinkly texture. Often known as natures candy, they are

counted amongst the most nutritious dried fruits in the whole world. Raisins are cholesterol free, low in sodium, high in fiber and totally fat free.

Apart from that, they contain a lot of vitamins and minerals, making their nutritional value very high. Raisins are the best source of quick

energy, as they contain 70 percent pure fructose, which gets digested by the body easily and gives instant energy. There are a number of other

health and nutrition benefits of eating raisins, some of which have been listed in the following lines.

The most common diseases that can be prevented or treated with raisins are constipation, eye problems, dental problems and osteoporosis.

Raisins are also used effectively to reduce weight of a person. People have also been using raisins to treat conditions like anemia, fever and

sexual weakness.This is the reason for the various colors in which raisins are seen. The raisins have many health benefits as mentioned

already. These health benefits are explained in detail below.Constipation: Raisins help to relieve constipation. This is mainly because of the

presence of the fiber that is present in the dried grapes. The fiber absorbs the water and helps to relieve constipation. This is one of the major

and most important health benefits of raisins.

Raisins are said to be a good nutritive food. Raisins are generally said to cholesterol free. So people suffering from cholesterol problems can

eat it without any problem. Raisins are also totally fat free, so young girls can enjoy its sweetness without taking into consideration its fat

content. Raisins are also said to be low in sodium content. Raisins act as a good source of vitamins and minerals including Vitamin B, Calcium,

Potassium and Iron. Raisins are very rich in antioxidants which generally prevent pre aging. It is also a good source of fiber. Raisins have a high

content of fructose. Raisins do not contain any preservatives; the natural sugar only acts as a preservative in them.

Raisins Health Benefits:

1.Dental Care: Oleanolic Acid, one of the phytochemicals present in raisins, plays crucial role in protecting your teeth against tooth decay,

cavities, brittleness of teeth etc. It effectively prevents growth of Streptococcus Mutans and Porphyromonas Gingivalis, two of the species of

bacteria which are most responsible for cavities and other dental problems. In addition to above, boron present in raisins plays a very

important role in checking growth of germs in the mouth as well promotes health of bones and teeth.

2.Eye Care: Raisins contain polyphenolic phytonutrients which have anti oxidant properties which are very good for ocular health, as they

protect eyes from damages caused by free radicals, such as macular degeneration, age related weakening of vision, cataract etc. In addition, it

contains very good amount of vitamin A, A Beta Carotene and A Carotenoid, all of which are essential for a good ocular health.

3.Bone Health: While Calcium, which is the main constituent of bones, is present in raisins, it is one of the best sources of Boron, a micro

nutrient (a nutrient required by the body in very small amount as compared to other nutrients) which is very necessary for proper bone

formation and absorption of calcium. Boron is particularly helpful in preventing osteoporosis induced by menopause in women and is very

beneficial for bones and joints.

4.Sexual Weakness: Raisins are known to stimulate libido and induce arousal, primarily due to presence of an amino acid called Arginine, which

is beneficial in treating problems in erection. It has been a common practice in India to make the bride and the groom drink a glass of milk each,

boiled with raisins and added with a pinch of saffron. It is also recommended for those suffering from sexual weakness, to consume raisins

regularly. This effect is aided with the presence of lot of energy in raisins.

5.Fever: Phenolic Phytonutrients, well known for their germicidal, anti biotic and anti oxidant properties, are present in abundance in raisins

and help cure fever by fighting viral and bacterial infections.

6.Anemia: Raisins contain considerable amount of iron which directly helps treating anemia. It also contains many members of vitamin B

complex which are essential for formation of blood. Copper in them also help formation of red blood cells.

7.Acidosis: Acidosis is a state of increased acidity of the blood or of the gases in our respiratory system, the source of acids for both being our

stomach. This is very harmful for the body as it may give rise to a number of problems like boils, skin diseases and damage to the internal

organs, arthritis, gout, renal calculi, hair loss, heart diseases, tumors and even cancer. Raisins are good source of potassium and magnesium

both of which are very effective in reducing acidity. They neutralize the acids and thus help check acidosis.

8.Weight Gain: Raisins, like all dry fruits, are very good for gaining weight, as they are full of fructose and glucose and give a lot of energy.

Thus, they form an ideal part of the diet for either athletes or body builders who need a lot of energy or those who want to put on weight,

without accumulating cholesterol. This is further boosted due to presence of many vitamins, amino acids and minerals in raisins which

facilitate absorption of other nutrients and proteins in the body.

9.Constipation: When ingested, raisins swell as the fiber present in them in dried form absorbs water. This helps giving relief in constipation.