What's Healthier: Raisins Or Dried Cranberries? (2024)

FAQs

What's Healthier: Raisins Or Dried Cranberries? ›

Our Pick: Raisins

The bottom line. Raisins are the clear choice. They're slightly lower in calories and sugar, but offer more protein, potassium, and other good-for-you nutrients.

Prunes provide fiber, GI regularity, and calcium to strengthen bones. Dates have been shown to assist with fertility and labor, are the most nutrient-dense of dried fruit options, and have a low GI index (so they don't affect blood sugar levels as intensely).

Cranberry FAQs

However, they also have a lot of added sugar. One serving size (or recommended portion) of dried cranberries has nearly 25 grams of added sugar, which is the recommended daily limit for some people. There are some unsweetened versions, but they can be hard to find.

HOW MUCH CRANBERRIES TO EAT DAILY? Studies confirming the health-promoting properties of cranberries have typically used doses of 100-300 g of fresh cranberries, equivalent to 7-10 g of dried cranberries, and 100-150 ml of 100% cranberry juice.

Dried cranberries offers profuse amounts of vitamin C that confers anti-inflammatory properties to reduce swelling in the bladder, which is more common in women than men. Also, its antioxidant capabilities are useful in removing detrimental free radicals and harmful bacteria from the body.

Cranberries. Loaded with anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, which are beneficial for people suffering from kidney ailments or UTIs.

Interactions with Other Drugs: Some studies have shown that cranberry might interacts with the anticoagulant (blood thinner) such as warfarin. Thus, you must discuss your ongoing medications and inform your doctor if you are already on blood thinners like warfarin before consuming dried cranberries.

Cranberries come under the category of GRAS (generally regarded as safe), but consumption in large amounts can cause upset stomach and diarrhoea in young children. Concentrated extracts of cranberries contain a high amount of oxalates. Oxalates are a risk factor for kidney stones when consumed in high amounts.

Dried cranberries often contain added sugar to make up for their natural tartness. However, some studies show that these foods may not necessarily spike blood sugar for everyone. Dried cranberries count towards your daily recommended fruit consumption, which is 1½ to two cups daily for women and two to 2½ cups for men.

Are cranberries healthier than blueberries? ›

The cranberry is also a contender when it comes to antioxidant content. While wild blueberries outperform them when it comes to measuring both antioxidant capacity and cellular antioxidant activity, cranberries pack their own health punch.

Dried cranberries may be marketed as craisins due to the similarity in appearance with raisins, although the word "Craisin" is a registered trademark of Ocean Spray. Craisins were introduced as part of a packaged cereal produced by Ralston Purina in 1989.

The best way to consume cranberries

Or you can purchase already frozen cranberries in your grocery store. If you're wondering how to use cranberries in your diet, some healthy ideas are to throw fresh or frozen cranberries into smoothies, oatmeal, salsa, or granola.

They both behave similarly in doughs and batters, absorbing liquids and softening throughout the baking process. For those seeking variety or catering to specific taste preferences, using dried cranberries as a substitute for raisins is a reliable and versatile choice.

Linked to a reduced risk for heart disease and cancer

Numerous studies have found that cranberries contain properties that have significantly reduced risk factors for cardiovascular disease. This includes supporting normal blood pressure, boosting “good”cholesterol levels, and reducing signs of inflammation.

Dried fruit is a smart choice if you're feeling constipated, as it contains more fiber than fresh fruit per serving. An easy snack is raisins, with 7 g of fiber per cup (compared to 1 g in 1 cup of grapes).

And one misconception is that foods containing sugar — including fruit — are completely off-limits. But the truth is, people living with diabetes can have raisins and many other fruits. In fact, fruits are a great choice because they contain plenty of : fiber.