The two are practically identical, but how do they differ? Raisins are actually dried grapes, so is there any nutritional difference between these two food items?
When any fruit is dried, it becomes more concentrated in its components. Is that a good thing, or a bad thing? Researcher will agree that it is a difficult question to answer, because it depends on why you eating either one to begin with. Researchers have found that gram for gram, raisins contain almost three times the amount of antioxidants as the original grape did. This means that you can eat one raisins and get the same amount of antioxidants as if you ate three grapes. Antioxidants are important in promoting and maintaining good health and optimal growth, and are essential in the treatment and prevention of certain chronic diseases, especially cancers. In addition, if you don’t really enjoy the taste of either grapes or raisins, you can eat only a small amount of raisins and still get relatively high health benefits.
When dried, the antioxidants found within grapes becomes concentrated, but unfortunately, so does the amount of sugar. This means that people who suffer from conditions like diabetes, will have to take caution in consuming too much of it.
Obviously, the kilojoule content of grapes versus raisins plays a huge role in weight loss. But most people who have dieted in the past will tell you that the reason they quit a particular diet was because they didn’t get enough food. Consider the differences between grapes and raisins as discussed above. You can eat one cup of grapes and get only 250 kilojoules, but eat 30 -40 raisins and get that much. Which would you prefer?
There are many differences between raisins and grapes, and the reasons for choosing one over the other mostly revolve around they are used. If you are simply looking for a great source of dietary antioxidants, raisins are the best way to go. However, if you are looking for a healthy snack that is low in calories and sugar and can help you stick to a weight loss program, stick with grapes.