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USA Today
2 days ago
- Health
- USA Today
Are raisins good for you? We asked a dietitian to break down the nutritional benefits.
If you're looking for a snack on the go, a sweet topping to your morning cereal or the star ingredient of an oatmeal raisin cookie, raisins are the versatile dried fruit that you can easily incorporate into a balanced dietary pattern. Raisins are dried grapes, meaning they're naturally quite nutrient-dense. They're high in fiber, and pack a punch with a few essential minerals. We asked an expert to break down everything you need to know about the nutritional benefits of raisins, and how they stack up against grapes. What are raisins good for? Yes, raisins are good for you. They have a similar nutritional profile to other kinds of fruits, says Camila Martin, a registered dietitian nutritionist with UW Health. They are high in carbohydrates and contain a little bit of protein and fat. They're also a relatively good source of iron, magnesium and potassium, says Martin. Raisins are also an excellent source of dietary fiber, says Martin. Over 90% of women and 97% of men don't meet the daily recommended intake of dietary fiber, according to the Dietary Guidelines for Americans 2020-2025. We know that having an adequate amount of dietary fiber is essential for reducing your risk of coronary heart disease and supporting gut health. So, in the context of a balanced dietary pattern, eating raisins could definitely contribute to meeting your daily fiber intake. What's healthier: Grapes or raisins? When comparing grapes and raisins, you might be wondering: Do grapes become less nutritious when they become raisins? There are a few different ways to prepare raisins, from drying them in the sun to using a food dehydrator. During these processes, the water content from the grape is evaporated, and the raisin essentially becomes a super concentrated grape. From a nutritional standpoint, grapes and raisins differ slightly. Raisins are higher in sugar and carbs than grapes are, but they're also a better source of dietary fiber, potassium and iron, per WebMD. So, one isn't necessarily healthier than the other, with pros and cons for each. It ultimately depends on your health goals, says Martin. Raisins are more energy-dense and are better source of fiber, though they also have a higher concentration of sugar. Because grapes have higher water content, they're a snack that'll probably fill you up faster than raisins. Do raisins spike blood sugar? 'There are three major macronutrients that are the building blocks of our food: carbohydrates, fat and protein,' says Martin. Raisins, being a fruit, are primarily made of carbs (which increase your blood sugar). So, consuming raisins may up your blood sugar levels, but because they contain a good amount of dietary fiber, minerals and protein, it should help slow the spike, says Martin. To prevent a potential blood sugar spike, raisins should be consumed in moderation. 'Whenever we're having a snack or meal that's primarily carbohydrates, make sure it's paired with something that has a healthy fat or protein,' says Martin. 'That's going to take away the peaks and valleys that can sometimes show up from foods that contain higher contents of one of those macronutrients.' It's also important to point out that not all sugar is bad. In fact, consuming natural sugars found in whole foods like fruits, vegetables and dairy support essential functions in the body, such as providing energy. A diet rich in fruits, vegetables and whole grains may lower your risk of developing certain chronic diseases, including diabetes and coronary heart disease, per Harvard Health. Ultimately, if you're following a balanced diet in which you are consuming a wide variety of fruits and vegetables, raisins are a great food to add to your weekly rotation.
Newsweek
5 days ago
- Health
- Newsweek
Woman Sets Out on 'Mental Health Walk,' But Dog Had Other Plans
Based on facts, either observed and verified firsthand by the reporter, or reported and verified from knowledgeable sources. Newsweek AI is in beta. Translations may contain inaccuracies—please refer to the original content. The internet couldn't stop laughing at a woman's attempt to clear her mind during a refreshing walk outside, being interrupted by her dog. Chamee Barkman, who is known on TikTok as @chameebarkmanx, needed to get outside for some fresh air and a "mental health walk." But as a dog owner, it only made sense to attempt to hit two birds with one stone and take her German shepherd with her. Getting in your daily steps is known to boost your mood, as it increases blood flow to both the brain and body. It helps support an active and healthy lifestyle. Additionally, walking can improve sleep, reduce stress, increase energy and mental alertness, aid in weight loss, lower cholesterol, and enhance heart health, according to WebMD. And while this was the intent for Barkman's walk, as well as to get her canine out of the house, her dog decided he wasn't interested. He needed the walk to release his energy. In her June 9 video, she filmed herself walking and holding the dog's leash. All seemed calm until she flipped the camera around to show what she was dealing with: her dog sprinting around her in circles. He hopped through the tall grass, taking a quick breather and looking at Barkman before running past her for rounds two, three and four. It wasn't what Barkman imagined for a mental health walk. In fact, she wrote on the clip that her dog was "making it worse." Newsweek reached out to @chameebarkmanx via TikTok for comment. Screenshots from a June 9 TikTok video of a woman trying to go on a "mental health walk" but her dog running around and making it a bit worse. Screenshots from a June 9 TikTok video of a woman trying to go on a "mental health walk" but her dog running around and making it a bit worse. @chameebarkmanx/TikTok Viewer Reactions The dog's total disregard for a calm walk left people in stitches, bringing in over 3.3 million views and 438,900 likes on TikTok as of Tuesday. "I'm laughing at how horrible it feels to be in this situation because it's your last straw and they're just vibing," commented a viewer. "And then you can't go on a walk by yourself because you'll feel guilty that your dog should be getting a walk too," a second viewer commented. Another commenter pointed out: "The dog even looked back like, 'You good?' and then carried on." Others defended the dog's behavior: "To be fair, that's his mental health walk too, and he seems to be enjoying it." Do you have funny and adorable videos or pictures of your pet you want to share? Send them to life@ with some details about your best friend, and they could appear in our Pet of the Week lineup.
NBC Sports
5 days ago
- Sport
- NBC Sports
Dallas Wings forward Maddy Siegrist will miss time with a knee injury that won't require surgery
ARLINGTON, Texas — Dallas Wings forward Maddy Siegrist is recovering from a right knee injury that won't require surgery but will keep her out of the lineup for some time. Siegrist suffered the injury in a loss at Phoenix. The Wings said the injury won't require surgery and the third-year player is expected to make a full recovery and return to the lineup 'later this season.' The Wings said Siegrist was diagnosed with an anterolateral tibial plateau fracture. WebMD describes the tibial plateau as the bone more commonly known as the shin bone, and being made up of cartilage. Dallas drafted Siegrist third overall out of Villanova in 2023, and she has averaged 9.4 points and 5.2 rebounds a game in 11 games this year. The Wings last month exercised her fourth-year rookie contract option for next season. She won the Athletes Unlimited individual championship in March, outscoring Odyssey Sims in the four-week event in Nashville.
New York Post
6 days ago
- Health
- New York Post
What is ‘mag glycinate' — and can it really help you sleep?
It's simply mag-nificent. A growing number of sleep-deprived social media users are turning to magnesium glycinate — dubbed mag glycinate by cool people on TikTok — for a smoother ride to dreamland. But is it truly a natural knockout? Or is this just another TikTok trend you can hit snooze on? Advertisement 4 Is magnesium glycinate truly a natural knockout? Or is this just another TikTok trend you can hit snooze on? dream@do – What is magnesium glycinate? You've probably already heard of magnesium, an essential mineral that's become a main ingredient of the viral Sleepy Girl Mocktail. Magnesium plays a crucial role in hundreds of bodily functions, including reducing stress, relaxing muscles and regulating your sleep-wake cycle. Magnesium glycinate is a type of magnesium that binds to the amino acid glycine, which helps your body absorb it more easily and which in itself has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Advertisement Unlike other common forms like magnesium citrate or magnesium oxide — which are often used to ease constipation but can lead to digestive distress — magnesium glycinate is considered gentler on the gut and more focused on supporting the brain and mood. Can magnesium glycinate help you relax and sleep? Possibly, especially if your sleep troubles are due to stress or anxiety. 'Magnesium glycinate is a well-regarded supplement known for its potential to contribute to better sleep and alleviate overall anxiousness,' Dr. Faisal Tai, a Houston-based psychiatrist, told Web MD. Advertisement 4 Magnesium glycinate is a type of magnesium that binds to the amino acid glycine, which helps your body absorb it more easily and which in itself has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Stefan – Tai noted that it is 'suggested to have a calming effect on the nervous system, potentially helping individuals fall asleep faster and experience more restorative sleep' and is 'particularly helpful to people dealing with anxiety, as sleep disturbances often worsen feelings of unease.' However, the science on this is slim. Some studies have found that magnesium supplementation improved sleep quality in older adults and people with insomnia, especially those with magnesium deficiencies. Advertisement But as sleep medicine specialist Chester Wu pointed out to the outlet, 'It is hard to find peer-reviewed literature on magnesium glycinate and sleep specifically. 'In much of the literature, the specific type of magnesium used in the study isn't noted.' She added that, even if the effect is just placebo, simply believing the supplement is working may have a relaxing effect, thereby promoting sleep anyway. It is, however, not a magic pill and should be paired with good sleep hygiene like cutting back on caffeine and alcohol and maintaining a consistent sleep schedule. 4 Unlike other common forms like magnesium citrate or magnesium oxide — which are often used to ease constipation but can lead to digestive distress — magnesium glycinate is considered gentler on the gut and more focused on supporting the brain and mood. ColleenMichaels – What are the other benefits of magnesium glycinate? Mag glycinate's wellness perks extend beyond a more restful slumber. Advertisement Research has linked magnesium to lower blood pressure and a reduced risk of heart disease, especially in people who are magnesium deficient. People who have diabetes, chronic digestive conditions like IBS, excessive drinkers and older adults might be at greater risk of magnesium deficiency. Studies have also shown a positive association between magnesium and migraines, diabetes, osteoporosis and depression. 4 Some studies have found that magnesium supplementation improved sleep quality in older adults and people with insomnia, especially those with magnesium deficiencies. Gorodenkoff – Does magnesium glycinate have any side effects? Advertisement While generally considered safe to consume — especially in comparison to other types of magnesium — magnesium glycinate can cause upset tummy. It's important to get the dosage right. The National Institutes of Health recommends 310-320 mg of magnesium per day for women and 400-420 mg daily for men. Too much magnesium can lead to low blood pressure, nausea or an irregular heartbeat. Advertisement People with kidney issues should be especially cautious, as they may have trouble clearing excess magnesium from the body. If you're considering a supplement, talk to a healthcare provider first — especially if you're on medication, pregnant or breastfeeding or have underlying conditions.
New York Post
14-06-2025
- Health
- New York Post
This veggie of many names can boost immunity, fight cancer and promote weight loss
It's crisp, green and criminally underrated. While trendy superfoods like kale and avocado often steal the spotlight, there's a low-calorie veggie you've probably been overlooking that delivers as much flavor as it does health benefits. Just don't forget the breath mints when you hit the grocery store to stock up. Advertisement 4 This vegetable is best in the spring and summer months when it has been freshly harvested. Brent Hofacker – What are spring onions? Think of them as scallions' older, slightly bolder cousins. While they're often used — and mistaken — for one another, the key difference is the small bulb at the base of a spring onion, according to The Kitchn. They are sweeter and milder than regular onions, yet their green stalks deliver more intense flavor than scallions. Spring onions are widely used across the globe as garnishes, flavor enhancers and even as a central ingredient in numerous dishes, particularly in East Asian cuisines. Advertisement And while they can make you cry, they won't be as brutal as regular onions. That's because spring onions contain lower levels of the enzymes and sulfur compounds that trigger those eye-burning tears when chopped. What are the health benefits of spring onions? Spring onions belong to the allium family — the same pungent plant group that includes garlic, leeks, shallots and chives. 4 Spring onions are immature onions harvested before they fully develop a bulb. Julia Sedaeva – 'Allium vegetables contain antioxidants that have been shown to help immune health and prevent inflammation and various diseases like cancer and heart disease,' Jessica Levinson, a registered dietician and culinary nutrition expert, told Prevention. Advertisement Researchers aren't entirely sure how it works, but one compound seems to stand out: allicin, the same substance that gives alliums their pungent flavor. Studies suggest it may help prevent cells from turning cancerous or slow the spread of tumors. Other antioxidants found in spring onions, including flavonoids and polyphenols, work to neutralize free radicals. These unstable molecules can damage cells, speed up aging and raise the risk of chronic diseases, according to WebMD. Their high fiber content doesn't hurt either. One cup of chopped scallions contains roughly 10% of your daily recommended intake. Advertisement That can help lower cholesterol levels, regulate blood sugar, improve digestion and even support weight management by keeping you fuller longer. 4 Spring onions can aid in weight management thanks to their high fiber content. mojo_cp – But fiber isn't the only thing spring onions have in spades. They're also loaded with vitamin K, which plays a crucial role in bone health and may help ward off osteoporosis. You'll also find plenty of vitamin A and plant compounds like carotene, lutein, and zeaxanthin, all known for supporting eye health and protecting against vision issues like age-related macular degeneration and cataracts. Add in a healthy dose of vitamin C and quercetin — both powerful immune-boosters — and you've got yourself a tiny, plant powerhouse that may even help kill bacteria, fungi and viruses. For these reasons, it's easy to see why onions have been used in traditional medicine for centuries to fight colds, flus, stomach issues and other ailments. Of course, you'll only only reap the full benefits if you eat them regularly — and no, sprinkling a few on a baked potato doesn't count. Are there any risks to eating spring onions? Advertisement Besides the breath issue, there are a few things to keep in mind. 4 Onion breath can persist for hours or even overnight. – If you're among the 10–15% of Americans with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), onions — including spring onions — could aggravate your symptoms, according to Healthline. Advertisement They may also trigger heartburn in people with gastroesophageal reflux disease, and in rare cases, they can cause allergic reactions. Symptoms include rash, mouth tingling, facial swelling, stomach pain or vomiting. In severe cases, spring onion allergies can lead to anaphylaxis, a life-threatening condition that requires immediate medical attention, per WebMD. More commonly, people experience an intolerance to alliums, which can cause bloating, gas and stomach cramps — usually if consumed in large amounts. Advertisement One more thing: they may interfere with certain medications. Spring onions have a mild anticoagulant effect, which can prevent blood clots — a good thing unless you're on blood thinners like warfarin. In those cases, research suggests that eating too many could increase your risk of bleeding.
