6 Dry Fruits and their Beauty Benefits

If you read up on any diet regime, it will always tell you to eat a handful of dry fruits. Since, dry fruits are packed with various vitamins, essential fats and nutrients; they keep you healthy and fit. They also have a number of skin benefits too. That is why; it is not surprising to see a number of dry fruits as the core ingredient of beauty products. So let us have a look at 5 dry fruits which should be a regular part of your diet.

Almonds:

As small as they look, almonds are jam packed with essential fatty acids, fibres and proteins. Almonds are really effective in treating acne. This dry fruit makes excellent face packs as well. For radiant skin, take crushed almonds (which have been soaked in water) and milk. Apply the mixture on your face to remove dead cells and dirt. For your hair, you can use almond oil to add lustre and shine to dull hair.

Health benefit: Almonds also improve your hemoglobin and promote blood circulation. They also reduce cholesterol and help in prevention of lung and breast cancer.

Raisins:

If you want to protect your pearly whites and your beautiful eyes, you must eat a handful of raisins daily. Raisins prevent tooth decay and keep cavities at bay. They are also a good source of Vitamin A and they protect your eyes from vision related problems. Raisins also keep your skin healthy and beautiful as they contain resveratrol, an antioxidant that slows down skin ageing.

Health benefit: Raisins are loaded with potassium, magnesium, phosphorous and iron and they promote blood circulation. They are highly recommended for those suffering from anemia.

Walnuts:

Walnuts are one of the healthiest nuts which are full of good fats and nutrients. Omega 3 fatty acids, which are found in abundance in walnuts, nourish dry skin and improve its texture. Mix a handful of walnuts with 3 tablespoons of yoghurt and blend it. Apply this scrub on your face daily for smooth and soft skin. Walnut, if used in the form of oil, contains linoleic acid, which prevents wrinkles and fine lines.

Health benefits: Walnuts are called brain food and not without reason. Nearly 60% of our brain structure comprises of Omega 3 fatty acids which are found in walnuts. Walnuts are also instrumental in promoting cardiovascular health.

Cashew nuts:

There is a myth about cashew nuts that they are unhealthy since they contain a lot of fats. But in reality, cashew nuts when eaten in moderation actually help you lose weight. Cashew nut oil too, is used in a number of cosmetics. It helps to reduce tan and prevents skin damage. It also helps protect your cracked heels and nourishes them. Cashew nuts are rich in Vitamin E and they have anti-ageing properties as well.

Health benefits: Cashew nuts help control cholesterol, blood sugar, prevents migraines and high blood pressure.

Pistachios:

Pistachios are powerhouse of nutrients. Rich in Vitamin E, they protect your skin from UV rays, premature ageing and even skin cancer. Pistachio oil has demulcent properties, which basically means that they help smoothen your skin. They also contain carotenoids, lutein and zeaxanthin, which are rarely found in nuts. Besides this, pistachios also contain antioxidants, which neutralize the free radicals, thus preventing ageing.

Health benefit: Pistachios help stabilize blood sugar, help in digestion, prevent heart diseases and provide your body with fibres and proteins.

Pumpkin Seeds:

Pumpkin seeds, or pepitas, are the unsung beauty hero in the world of nuts and seeds. Packed full of vitamin E, zinc and magnesium, these seeds will keep your skin glowing, promote regeneration of skin cells and fight off bacteria that may lead to acne. "Vitamin E is a powerful antioxidant,". "It helps skin repair itself quickly." And zinc has long been a remedy for acne sufferers. Pumpkin seeds are also a protein powerhouse, which also can help with cell regeneration. Who could ask for more from such a tasty little seed?

Health Benefit: Pumpkin seeds are high in zinc, making them a natural protector of osteoporosis. According to studies it prevents kidney stone formation and reduces inflation of arthritis.

GUIDELINES FOR EATING NUTS AND SEEDS:

·         Nuts and seeds are best eaten raw and unsalted.

·         Store nuts and seeds in the refrigerator or freezer to preserve freshness.

·         If you enjoy nuts and seeds roasted, roast them yourself in the oven.

·         If you can't eat nuts and seeds without salt, buy them raw, roast them and sprinkle on a pinch of sea salt.

·         Nuts and seeds make a great addition to salads (instead of croutons), stir-fries and oatmeal.

·         Nut butters are easier to digest.

·         Although nuts and seeds offer many benefits, too much of this good thing can wreak havoc on your waistline and digestion. Stick to 1 to 2 ounces per day.