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The annual autumn candy deluge is upon us, but just because Snickers bars and candy corns are clamoring for attention, it doesnt mean your sweet tooth has to pay them any mind. Sweet, chewy and concentrated with nutrients, dried fruit might not strike you as "diet food," but new research refutes the notion that dried fruit eaten in moderation -- is fattening.
Researchers from Louisiana State University studied dietary habits of 13,292 adults and found that those who ate dried fruit daily (as little as an eighth of a cup) had lower body mass indexes (BMIs), smaller waists and as much as five percent less body fat.
Why might this be? For one thing, dried fruit eaters had a 43 percent higher intake of fiber, which has been shown in aid weight loss. Also, this group had an overall 20 percent higher intake of nearly all essential nutrients thereby avoiding nutrient deficiencies that send bodies the message to keep eating.
Another dried fruit bonus: Raisins contain compounds that might help reduce tooth decay by fighting oral bacteria that is linked to cavities and gum disease.
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