Red grapes and their health benefits
Illustrative photo (Freepik)
Consuming a large quantity of fruits and vegetables is very beneficial for health, as they are rich in vitamins and fiber. An expert has discovered that a certain fruit, which can be found in every supermarket, can bring a range of incredible health benefits, according to The Times.
Champion in health benefits among fruits
According to dietitian Alexa Ruani, red grapes can help lower cholesterol levels and inflammation, as well as boost immunity.
Ruani, a nutrition researcher at University College London, explained that red grapes are rich in polyphenols.
These are antioxidant plant compounds. Red grapes contain anthocyanins, a blue pigment that is beneficial for brain health, and resveratrol, which has anti-inflammatory and anti-aging properties.
The skin and seeds of red grapes are also rich in other antioxidants, including catechins and epicatechins, which are also found in tea and are known to reduce oxidative stress in the body.
What do studies say?
Ruani said that a very detailed 2023 study published in Nature involving healthy men and women showed that consuming three 80-gram portions of grapes [about 14 grapes per portion] over two weeks increases levels of beneficial bacteria such as Streptococcus thermophilus and decreases potentially harmful Holdemania spp., promoting a healthier gut microbiome.
These changes are often associated with improved digestion, immune support, and reduced inflammation.
The same study also showed a significant increase in molecules associated with DNA repair, indicating that the bioactive compounds in grapes can enhance mechanisms related to healthier and longer life.
It is known that grapes reduce low-density lipoproteins due to the amount of fiber they contain.
This is because soluble fibers can slow down or even reduce the absorption of certain nutrients into your bloodstream, such as cholesterol. Another study, published in the Food and Function magazine in 2015, found benefits specifically for red grapes.
Scientists found that people with high cholesterol who ate three cups of red grapes a day for eight weeks had lower overall cholesterol, as well as reduced low-density lipoproteins.
In the study, researchers from Bushehr University of Medical Sciences in Iran divided 69 patients into three groups.
Two groups consumed 500 grams of either red Condori grapes or white Shahroodi grapes daily for eight weeks, while the third group did neither.
The scientists reported that overall antioxidant capacity was significantly increased in both red and white grape consumption groups compared to the control group.
