Health benefits of grapes
Rose May Pimentel in Health
Oct 23, 2020 • 3 min Read
Grape is one of the most popular fruits worldwide, not only delicious, but they provide a wealth of health benefits due to its high nutrient and antioxidant contents.
Grapes are mostly used in making vinegar, grape seed oil, wine, jam, juice, jelly, raisins, and grapefruit extract. Aside from culinary and food processing, this fruit was also traditionally used by ancient people in treating and preventing numerous types of diseases due to its medicinal properties.
Here are some of the incredible benefits of grapes, from Healthline:
1. High in important nutrients
Grapes contain many important vitamins and minerals, including more than one-quarter of the Reference Daily Intake for vitamins C and K. One cup (151 grams) of grapes provides more than a quarter of the RDI for vitamin K, a fat-soluble vitamin vital for blood clotting and healthy bones. They’re also a good source of vitamin C, an essential nutrient and powerful antioxidant necessary for connective tissue health.
2. High Antioxidant Contents May Prevent Chronic Diseases
Grapes are high in antioxidants, beneficial plant compounds that may protect against chronic health conditions, such as diabetes and heart disease.
3. Plant Compounds May Protect Against Certain Types of Cancer
Grapes contain beneficial plant compounds, such as resveratrol that may protect against various types of cancer, including colon cancer and breast cancer.
4. Beneficial for Heart Health in Various Impressive Ways
Compounds in grapes and red wine may protect against heart disease. It may help lower blood pressure and cholesterol.
5. Decrease Blood Sugar Levels and Protect Against Diabetes
Though grapes are high in sugar, they have a low glycemic index. Additionally, compounds in grapes may protect against high blood sugar
6. Contain Several Compounds That Benefit Eye Health
Grapes contain several compounds, such as resveratrol, lutein, and zeaxanthin, that may protect against common eye diseases, including age-related macular degeneration, cataracts, and glaucoma.
7. Improve Memory, Attention, and Mood
Grapes contain compounds that may improve memory, attention, and mood and may protect against Alzheimer’s disease, though more human-based research is needed to confirm some of these benefits.
8. Contain Nutrients Important for Bone Health
Grapes contain nutrients important for bone health, including calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, and vitamin K. Studies in rats have shown that grapes may have protective effects on bones, but human studies are needed to confirm these benefits.
9. Protect Against Certain Bacteria, Viruses, and Yeast Infections
Grapes contain several compounds that have shown beneficial effects against certain bacteria, viruses, and yeast infections.
10. Slow Down Aging and Promote Longevity
Resveratrol in grapes has been shown to activate genes associated with slower aging and longer lifespan.
11. Prevent Chronic Diseases by Decreasing Inflammation
Grapes contain compounds that may have anti-inflammatory effects, which may protect against certain heart and bowel diseases.
Grapes are fabulous on their own as a snack or fruit for dessert. Include these gems in your daily meals and snacks by adding to salads to making juices and smoothies. These are just so many ways in which you can enjoy this fruit. The greatness of grapes is real!
Stay healthy and safe!
