Grapes are some of the most familiar and beloved fruits the world over. Aside from being easy to munch on, grapes also are high in phytochemicals. These help in lowering the risk of chronic diseases including certain types of cancer and other cardiovascular diseases. Thus, indicating the health benefits of grapes.
They come in a variety of colors ranging from red, green, to a color we are all familiar with – purple. Aside from that, grapes are widely available in different forms:
- Wine
- Raisins
- Jam/jelly
- Juice
5 Health Benefits of Grapes
Whether eaten as is, taken as a drink, or added as part of your favorite dessert, grapes provide more benefits than you ever thought they could.
Grapes Improve Heart Health
On top of this list of benefits of grapes is what we always hear from people. They say drinking wine is good for the heart, but what is the explanation behind it?
As mentioned, grapes contain powerful phytochemicals, particularly resveratrol, which aids in improving heart health.
According to some studies, drinking red and purple juices and/or wine offer some healthy heart benefits, including:
- Lowering the likelihood of blood clots
- Reducing low-density lipoprotein (LDL or the bad cholesterol)
- Preventing damage to your heart’s blood vessels
- Maintaining a healthy blood pressure
Furthermore, a seven-year multiethnic study of 3,300 middle-aged women found that moderate wine consumption resulted in significantly lower levels of inflammation. This is when compared to women who drank little to no wine.
However, it is still important to keep in mind to drink only in moderation.
Grapes Can Prevent Cancer
Consuming grapes is not only for those who want something sweet to snack on. More importantly, it is for those who want to get a good source of antioxidants.
Grapes, which are high in antioxidants, may aid in the fight against free radicals, which are substances that can potentially harm cells and cause cancer.
Some powerful antioxidants present in grapes include:
- Phenolic acids
- Stilbenes
- Anthocyanins
- Proanthocyanidins
- Catechins
- Quercetins
Resveratrol is also an antioxidant that is responsible for protection against cancer. It works by minimizing the inflammation that could cause the growth of cancer cells.
All these antioxidants work well together to fight off such a condition as cancer.
Grapes Can Be Good for the Immune and Skeletal System
Another one on this list of benefits of grapes is that it is filled with vitamins beneficial for both the immune system and skeletal system.
Grapes are succulent fruits that are high in the following vitamins and minerals:
- Vitamin C
- Vitamin K
- Calcium
- Magnesium
- Potassium
- Fiber
These nutrients work closely with one another to help people power through their day.
Vitamin C can assist the immune system in fighting bacterial and viral infections like a yeast infections. Moreover, it is also involved in the other processes such as:
- Biosynthesis of collagen, L–carnitine, and other particular neurotransmitters
- Protein metabolism
- Wound healing
Meanwhile, vitamin K, calcium, magnesium, and potassium all take charge in maintaining bone health.
Grapes Provide Protection Against Diabetes
Grapes take part in the list of fruits having a low glycemic index, which is particularly beneficial for those living with diabetes. Consumption of such will prevent your blood sugar from spiking which could, later on, affect the management of the condition.
Additionally, studies show that the nutrients in grapes do not only lower blood sugar levels, but it may also increase insulin sensitivity. The main component, resveratrol, also works in increasing the number of glucose receptors on cell membranes. Thus, helping with your body’s use of glucose.
Grapes Help Maintain and Improve Brain Health
Again, it all comes down to the wonders and numerous health benefits of resveratrol that makes grapes improve brain health.
A 12-week study showed that older adults who took in 250 mg of grape supplement per day resulted in significantly improved scores on a cognitive test.
Furthermore, the said potent antioxidant aids in the reduction of oxidative stress, which has been shown to benefit the brain.
Key Takeaway
Overall, the benefits of grapes go on as researchers continue to find how the potency of resveratrol can help in many different body processes and functioning.
So, go on munch all the grapes you can for a happier and healthier life. But remember to also treat yourself to more fruits and vegetables to add more variety to your diet.
Learn more about Healthy Eating here.
[embed-health-tool-bmr]
