Grapes are easy to find, practical to consume and can be included in the diet in different ways. Despite their small size, they contain nutrients associated with cardiovascular health, hydration and cell protection.
12 benefits of grapes that can make a difference to your health
Grapes are easy to find, practical to consume and can be included in the diet in different ways. Despite their small size, they contain nutrients associated with cardiovascular health, hydration and cell protection....
Nutritionist Kayla Girgen explained to the Health website why fruit can be consumed more frequently.
"Grapes are packed with nutrients that are good for your body. They can support heart health and provide antioxidants that help protect your cells, making them an easy way to add more nutrition to your day," he said.
Check out 12 possible benefits of grapes:
1. They can help with weight control
One cup of grapes contains approximately 124 calories. Therefore, fruit can be a nutritious alternative for snacks, especially when replacing higher-calorie and ultra-processed foods.
2. They can help control blood sugar
Grapes have a moderate glycemic index, an indicator that measures the speed at which carbohydrates present in food increase blood sugar levels.
3. Contribute to heart health
The nutrients and antioxidants found in the fruit can benefit the cardiovascular system and help protect blood vessels.
4. They help with hydration
One cup of grapes provides about 121 grams of water. Consuming the fruit, therefore, can also complement your daily fluid intake.
5. They are sources of antioxidants
The fruit brings together compounds that help fight oxidative stress, a process related to cellular damage and the development of different diseases.
6. They can act on the aging process
Resveratrol, a substance present mainly in the skin of grapes, is studied for its possible effect on mechanisms linked to cell aging.
7. They can promote memory
The antioxidants present in the fruit are also associated with brain protection and can help with cognitive functions, such as memory and learning.
8. May contribute to sleep
Grapes contain small amounts of melatonin, a hormone naturally produced by the body and responsible for helping to regulate the sleep cycle.
9. Help protect your eyes
Two antioxidant pigments found in the fruit are associated with maintaining eye health and protecting eye structures.
10. They can reduce damage caused by diseases
Among the antioxidants present in grapes are pigments responsible for the color of the fruit. These compounds are studied for their possible protective role against neurodegenerative diseases.
11. Provide important nutrients for bones
Vitamin K, calcium, magnesium and potassium are among the nutrients found in grapes and participate in maintaining bone health.
12. Contribute to the immune system
One cup of grapes offers approximately 4.8 milligrams of vitamin C, an essential nutrient for the proper functioning of the body's defenses.
Study: 2 foods you should eat to improve heart health
Grapes and blueberries can be valuable allies for cardiovascular health. A review of studies concluded that regular consumption of these fruits, rich in polyphenols, is associated with reduced inflammation, lower blood pressure and improved blood vessel function, helping to protect the heart.
This story was originally published by Noticias ao Minuto - Lifestyle. Visit the original publication for further details.
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