To print: Select File and then Print from your browser's menu --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Title: Fiber-Rich Sun-Dried Raisins Play Part in Cholesterol-Lowering Diet URL: http://www.pslgroup.com/dg/6B5E.htm Doctor's Guide March 19, 1996
LOS ALTOS, Calif. March 19, 1996 -- 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). The research represents the latest addition to a growing body of research linking sun-dried raisins with a "basket" of health benefits, including other heart-protective features and possible colon disease prevention. In addition, raisins -- which contain nearly 4 grams of dietary fiber per 1 1/2 oz. serving (almost 20 percent of the U.S. RDI) -- are portable and convenient high-energy snacks to throw in one's lunch box, backpack or briefcase. The study, conducted by Gene Spiller, Ph.D., director of the Health Research and Studies Center in Los Altos, Calif., examined 15 average-weight adults with above-average cholesterol. The four-week diet included fruits, vegetables, whole grain breads, olive oil, nuts, beans and two 1 1/2 oz. boxes per day of sun-dried raisins. The result was a lowering of LDL levels by 15 percent and total cholesterol by more than eight percent. The Mediterranean Diet, a model for healthful eating habits, first gained popularity 10 years ago. The diet is based on a theory about the relationship between the eating habits of populations in different geographical areas and mortality from cardiovascular diseases. The "Seven Countries Study" shows that Mediterranean countries, where cardiovascular disease is low, have particularly low cholesterol levels compared to countries such as Finland and the United States, where the incidence of cardiovascular disease is higher. The diversities are explained, in part, by the difference in diet -- particularly the low intake of saturated fat and high levels of fiber in the Mediterranean diet(A). "The typical American diet is low in fiber and high in saturated fat," explained Dr. Spiller. "The new study confirms that following a diet similar to that of the Mediterranean peoples, including foods like sun-dried raisins, whole grains and fresh fruits and vegetables, can significantly decrease cholesterol levels -- leading to less risk of heart disease." Dr. Spiller presented his study Friday, March 15 in San Francisco at the American Heart Association's 36th Annual Conference on Cardiovascular Disease Epidemiology and Prevention. Nutrition research conducted in the past year links sun-dried raisins with further significant health benefits, including the heart-protective benefits of phenolics -- antioxidant compounds found in raisins, grapes and wine (a summary of the nutritional findings is attached.) Dr. Spiller has conducted extensive research and writing on fiber and the Mediterranean Diet, including editing the 1993 "Handbook of Fiber in Human Nutrition" and the "Mediterranean Diets in Health and Disease." He continues to conduct a series of sun-dried raisin nutrition studies on behalf of Sun-Maid Growers of California. SUN-DRIED RAISINS' "BASKET" OF BENEFITS Sun-Dried Raisins Contain Heart-Protective Phenolics Since the French Paradox was brought to light several years ago, considerable attention has been paid to wine and its reputed health benefits. Studies identified phenolics as key compounds responsible for wine's heart-healthy attributes. Last year, research confirmed that sun-dried raisins also contain significant levels of these antioxidant compounds. With sun-dried raisins, people of all ages can enjoy the benefits phenolics provide. Sun-Dried Raisins Are Ideal "Energy" Food This spring, research revealed that sun-dried raisins are a top energy source, sustaining blood sugar levels (and therefore, energy levels) longer than other so-called "pick-me-up" foods. What's more, sun-dried raisin consumption does not lead to the significant "let-down" often associated with other "high-energy" foods. Portable and convenient, sun-dried raisins can provide a quick and long-lasting energy boost. Sun-Dried Raisins May Help Prevent Colonic Disease A 1995 study of sun-dried raisins concluded that sun-dried raisin consumption, which provides the optimal combination of fiber and tartaric acid, helps rid the colon of waste more efficiently, thereby increasing improved overall colonic health. Like benzoic acid found in cranberries and citric acid found in oranges, tartaric acid is a naturally occurring organic compound. Raisins and grapes are the only common foods known to contain tartaric acid, and unlike other fruit acids, tartaric acid is the only compound being studied for its health benefits. (A) Source: "The Mediterranean Diets in Health and Disease." "Comparison of Current Eating Habits in Various Mediterranean Countries," Giacco & Riccardi. Van Nostrand Reinhold. New York 1991. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Copyright © 1999 P\S\L Consulting Group Inc. All rights reserved. Republication or redistribution of P\S\L content is expressly prohibited without the prior written consent of P\S\L. 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