What Is The #1 Healthiest Dried Fruit?

Summary

This video explores the health benefits of dried fruits, highlighting raisins' potential to reduce LDL cholesterol and the risk of diabetes and cardiovascular disease. However, Dr. Michael Greger of NutritionFacts.org identifies Goji berries, or 'gois', as potentially the healthiest dried fruit, noting their affordability in Asian markets and traditional medicinal uses. Goji berries are said to benefit eye health, aging, and organ function. A cautionary note is provided for pregnant women and those taking certain medications due to the presence of betane and potential interactions.

Takeaways

• 🍇 Dried fruit, such as prunes, can be beneficial for bone health.
• 😋 Dried fruits are a convenient and tasty snack, rich in fiber, antioxidants, and polyphenols.
• 🍯 The removal of water from dried fruits concentrates sugar and calories, increasing their glycemic index.
• 📊 A study found that raisin intake can reduce serum LDL cholesterol, triglycerides, and oxidized LDL levels, potentially lowering the risk of diabetes and cardiovascular disease.
• 👨‍⚕️ Dr. Michael Greger suggests that Goji berries, also known as Lycium or wolfberries, might be the healthiest dried fruit.
• 🛒 Goji berries are cheaper in Asian markets compared to natural health food stores where they can be quite expensive.
• 🌿 Goji berries have been used in traditional medicine for their various health benefits, including eye health, anti-aging, and strengthening of the kidneys, liver, and lungs.
• ⚠️ Pregnant women should be cautious with Goji berries due to the presence of betanin, which may harm fetal health.
• 💊 There is a possibility of Goji berries interacting with certain medications, such as blood thinners and drugs for diabetes or high blood pressure.
• 🤔 Concerns about sugar in fruits and dried fruits, and their potential to feed cancer are mentioned, with a suggestion to explore further in a subsequent video.
• 🍬 The script raises questions about the signs of eating too much fruit and its implications on health.

Q & A

What are the potential health benefits of prunes mentioned in the previous video?

The previous video discussed the benefits of prunes for our bones, although specific details are not provided in the transcript.

What is the main topic of the current video?

The current video focuses on identifying the healthiest dried fruit according to Dr. Michael Greger, which may be different from common expectations.

Why might dried fruits be considered a healthy snack option?

Dried fruits are a healthy snack option because they are a great source of fiber, antioxidants, and polyphenols.

What is a potential drawback of consuming dried fruits?

A potential drawback is that the removal of water from dried fruits concentrates the sugar and calories into a smaller package and increases its glycemic index.

What health benefits are associated with raisin intake according to the study mentioned?

The study found that raisin intake can reduce serum LDL cholesterol, triglycerides, and oxidized LDL levels, potentially reducing the risk for developing diabetes or cardiovascular disease.

What is Dr. Michael Greger's recommendation for the healthiest dried fruit to eat?

Dr. Greger recommends 'gojis' or 'Lycium barbarum', also known as wolfberries, as the healthiest dried fruit.

Why are Goji berries considered to be more beneficial than other dried fruits?

Goji berries have been used in traditional medicine for thousands of years and are believed to protect eye health, slow signs of aging, and strengthen the kidneys, liver, and lungs.

What is the caution advised for pregnant women regarding Goji berries?

Pregnant women are cautioned against consuming Goji berries due to the presence of betaine, a compound that may harm fetal health.

Are there any potential interactions between Goji berries and certain medications?

Yes, Goji berries may interact with certain drugs, including blood thinners and medications for diabetes or high blood pressure.

What is the concern about sugar in dried fruits in relation to cancer?

The concern is that sugar might feed cancer, although the transcript does not provide a direct answer to this question.

What signs might indicate that you are eating too much fruit?

The transcript suggests that there will be an answer to this question in a subsequent video or part of the series.