Searching for healthy snacks?

Top 3 health benefits of dried fruit

1. Source of protective antioxidants

Dried fruits are rich in plant compounds with protective antioxidant properties, these include anthocyanins, catechins and phenols. These compounds may be associated with health benefits such as improved blood flow and a lower risk of certain diseases, including heart disease, cancer and type 2 diabetes.

2. Rich source of micronutrients

As dried fruit contains less water they are a more concentrated source of vitamins and minerals when compared to their fresh counterparts. Dried fruit is shelf staple and their natural sweetness encourages consumption; these factors may help towards achieving the recommended 5 a day portions of fruit and vegetables and to an improved diet quality. However, it’s worth remembering that they are also significantly higher in calories per 100g.

3. Useful source of dietary fibre

Dried fruit contains roughly two to three times the amount of fibre than their fresh equivalent. Most of us don’t eat enough fibre which is important to support digestive function and to help slow down the rate of digestion and absorption. Greater fruit fibre intake is also associated with a lower risk of cardiovascular disease.