Grapes are one of my favorite fruits, I love the sweetness that explodes in your mouth when biting into one. For thousands of years many cultures have used grapes as medicine. They are loaded with 1600 compounds, many that contribute to your health.
Grapes are a good source of potassium that helps balance fluids in your body. Potassium is a key mineral that lowers your blood pressure and the risk of heart disease and strokes.
The seed of the grape is rich in vitamin E which helps your skin stay hydrated and smooth. Other compounds found in grapes help to prevent acne and increase blood flow to the scalp for a healthier head of hair.
Sweet they may be but there is a natural compound in grapes that makes it difficult for your cells to store fat. As well it helps fat cells break up faster leading to weight loss. However don’t get carried away, 1 serving of grapes should be 1/2 cup or about 16 grapes.
Natural chemicals in grapes ease inflammation and protect cells from damage. Including grapes in your diet can prevent or delay common eye diseases like cataracts and glaucoma.
Resveratrol a grape compound helps to build the immune system which is the body’s defense against germs. Resveratrol slows cell breakdown that happens naturally as we age. That may prevent plaque from forming in your brain that would slow brain function.
Have difficulty with constipation? Grapes are high in water content which helps your digestive system run smoother. They are also full of insoluble fiber which can lead to softer stools.
Melatonin is found in the skin of the grape and may improve your sleep. Melatonin eases insomnia, jet lag and may steady your mood.
Grapes have a low glycemic index which means they won’t raise your blood sugar quickly. Because of that they are a great choice if you are diabetic. The polyphenols found in purple grapes, the compounds that give them their color, may help prevent type 2 diabetes.
There are supplements that have the same nutrients as grapes but eating fresh fruit has the most health benefits. Grape juice is good for you but it is loaded with sugar and doesn’t have the dietary fiber found in whole grapes.
The amount of antioxidants in grapes depend on the variety, where they were grown, how they were picked, and processed. Dark red and purple grapes contain more antioxidants than the white and green varieties.
As for wine, red wine has the most health benefits, just don’t drink the whole bottle. If you don’t drink, don’t start, if you do try to stay within the guidelines of one glass for women and two glasses for men.
Add red and purple grapes to your diet, the medicinal benefits will do your body good.
