Dried fruits aren't just packed with nutrients and vitamins, they are also rich in fibre. The Department of Dietetics from Singapore General Hospital (SGH) shares the many health benefits of dried fruits like apricots, figs and wolfberry.
Dried fruits are packed with vitamins and nutrients!
Dietitians from the
Department of Dietetics at
Singapore General Hospital (SGH), a member of the
SingHealth group, discuss the numerous nutritional benefits of dried fruits.
Apricot
|
An excellent source of vitamin A for healthy skin, tissues and mucous membranes, as well as eyesight. Vitamin E protects cells against free radicals and may help prevent cardiovascular disease and cancer.
Besides dietary fibre, apricot also contains potassium, copper and iron for muscle strength, bone growth, regulation of body temperature and formation of red blood cells. |
Fig |
Rich in dietary fibre for bowel movement, manganese for metabolism and calcium absorption, and vitamin K for blood clotting.
The range of vitamin B types, including B1, B2 and B5, help in energy production. Vitamin B5 (pantothenic acid) also aids in forming antibodies to fight infection and maintaining a healthy digestive tract. |
Tomato
|
High in potassium, copper, manganese, iron, magnesium as well as vitamins B1, B2, B3, B6, C and K. Together, they contribute to the formation of connective tissue, strong bones and teeth, blood clotting and nerve function.
Dried tomatoes also contain selenium, a trace mineral which has antioxidant properties and helps regulate metabolism. |
Wolfberry |
Contains 18 types of amino acids (six times higher than bee pollen) as well as minerals like zinc, iron, copper, calcium and selenium.
Wolfberry is also the richest source of carotenoids around, such as lutein and zeaxanthin for healthy eyes. Compounds like betaine and cyperone help detoxify the liver and ease menstruation problems, respectively. |
Cranberry |
Dietary fibre and smaller amounts of vitamins B3, B6, E for energy, metabolism, antioxidant and blood clotting purposes.
Cranberry also contains antibacterial properties which may prevent urinary tract infection. |
Sultana |
Contains about 20 vitamins and minerals such as vitamins B, C, K, potassium, copper, manganese and phosphorus.
Sultana is one of the top sources of boron, a trace mineral which helps prevent osteoporosis by aiding bone maintenance. Boron also promotes proper mental functioning and alertness. |
Longan |
Good source of vitamin C to boost the immune system, wound healing and the absorption of iron, as well as copper for nerve function, bone growth and blood sugar regulation.
Longan also contains smaller amounts of iron, phosphorus, potassium, magnesium, calcium, sodium and vitamins B1, B2 and B3. |
Ref: N18
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Ref : U24