The first thing that comes to mind as a good source of vitamin C is oranges. However, grapes are packed full of vitamin C and other nutrients such as antioxidants, vitamin K, and potassium. Grapes are also full of water which helps with hydration. There are other ways grapes are healthy for you; below are a few.
Because of vitamin C grapes may help your immune system to fight against bacterial and viral infections. A healthy immune system helps us fight or prevent sudden short-term illnesses. Full of antioxidants, grapes help fight off free radicals, molecules that can damage cells and may lead to cancer. The cancer-fighting antioxidant in grapes is resveratrol, it reduces inflammation and blocks the growth of cancer cells.
Grapes being low in sodium are a good addition to your diet to help lower high blood pressure. They are also high in potassium which can balance your blood pressure. Resveratrol also protects against heart disease.
Is your cholesterol high? The high fiber in grapes can help lower it. It acts like a sweeper to remove cholesterol out of the body into the liver where it can be processed. Grapes have a low glycemic index number, which means it won’t raise your blood sugar.
The antioxidant resveratrol found in grapes also reduces oxidative stress and may have a positive effect on your brain. Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s disease can be signs of oxidative stress. Resveratrol may reduce the chances of those diseases happening.
Eating grapes may help you maintain strong bones thanks to vitamin K, and minerals like calcium, magnesium, and potassium. Grapes may slow down aging, yes you read that right. Back to the powerful antioxidant resveratrol, stimulates SirT1 gene, which has been linked to a longer lifespan by affecting cell structure and protecting cells.
Trouble sleeping? Grapes have melatonin in them, they don’t have a lot of calories and can help you fall asleep. What kind of grapes should you eat? Your options include, green, white, purple, and red. It’s not so much the color of the grape, but that you eat the natural, original, unprocessed grape to reap the benefits stated.
Grapes are readily available all year, economical, and nutritious. A cup of grapes is a serving, they make a great snack. One of my favorite ways to enjoy them is freezing them for a delicious snack. You may add them to smoothies and salads as well. Eat grapes two to three times a week to reap the health benefits. Add them to your diet to improve your health and longevity.
Until next time,
Peace, Love, and Blessings💖
