Chocolate Raisins

1. Raisins are the original candy — nature's candy. They are one of the most nutritious dried fruits in the world. Raisins are cholesterol-free, low in sodium and totally fat-free. They provide many necessary vitamins and minerals, including iron, potassium, calcium and certain B vitamins. Raisins are a good source of fiber and rich in antioxidants. Raisins are 70% pure fructose (a natural form of sugar) which is easily digested for quick energy.

2. New research indicates that subjects can lower their cholesterol level when naturally fiber-rich sun-dried raisins are included in a Mediterranean-style diet.The new research (published in the February issue of the American Heart Association's "Circulation") studied the effects of sun-dried raisins in a diet high in fiber and low in saturated fats on adults with elevated cholesterol levels. The study revealed that subjects who followed the diet lowered their levels of LDL ("bad" cholesterol) and total cholesterol -- reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease. Over 50 percent of the adult population in the United States today suffer from elevated cholesterol levels (above 200 mg/dl).

3."We found a significant, positive correlation between consuming sun-dried raisins and a change in some colon cancer risk factors," said Gene Spiller, Ph.D., lead study author and researcher at the Health Research and Studies Center in Los Altos, California. "Eating as little as two servings — or ½ cup — of raisins resulted in beneficial changes in colon function that may help combat the estimated 130,000 new cases of colorectal cancer expected to be diagnosed this year."