4 little-known reasons grapes are great for your body
Photo: Why you should eat grapes (Freepik)
Grape season is in full swing, and a new study suggests that this fruit could be a true superfood. It turns out that grapes contain over 1,600 compounds beneficial for the heart, gut, brain, and other organs, reports the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry.
What do scientists say about grapes?
Part of what makes grapes so beneficial is that their numerous compounds (such as resveratrol and quercetin) "can work together, enhancing each other's effects," notes the report's author, Dr. John Pezzuto.
One key benefit of grapes is their impact on the gut microbiome. Beneficial bacteria convert compounds from grapes into even more useful substances that positively influence genes throughout the body, triggering processes such as antioxidant and anti-inflammatory responses.
4 ways grapes improve your health
Protects your cells from damage
"Grapes are rich in antioxidants, which protect our cells from damage and oxidative stress. These powerful substances protect our brain, heart, and cells," said Cleveland Clinic dietitian Julia Zumpano.
Additionally, grapes contain resveratrol, an antioxidant linked to the prevention of cancer and heart disease.
Helps control blood sugar and weight
"Grapes are also rich in fiber that helps control blood sugars, appetite, and weight. Fiber also feeds the gut microbiome," Zumpano added.
Supports healthy blood pressure
"Grapes are also a good source of potassium, which helps control blood pressure, and they are naturally low in sodium, which also supports healthy blood pressure readings," the dietitian noted.
Improves sleep, immunity, and bone health
"Grapes provide melatonin, which aids in restful sleep, and they are a source of vitamin C, which helps boost your immune system," Zumpano said.
Finally, the vitamins K, calcium, magnesium, and potassium in grapes help maintain strong bones.
Are grapes a superfood?
Unlike trendy labels, the "superfood" status should be based on scientific research. Grapes fall into this category.
"Grapes have been tested in human clinical trials and found to promote a variety of health benefits. They are a proven entity, not something that is simply based on hope or conjecture," Pezzuto explained.
This material is for informational purposes only and should not be used for medical diagnosis or self-treatment. Our goal is to provide readers with accurate information about symptoms, causes, and methods of detecting diseases. RBС-Ukraine is not responsible for any diagnoses that readers may make based on materials from the resource. We do not recommend self-treatment and advise consulting a doctor in case of any health concerns.
