The Goods on Grapes

Grapes Deliver a Payload of Antioxidants

Grapes are a powerful contributor to cardiovascular, brain, metabolic and cellular health.  They contain a rich mix of at least 500 antioxidants, which are responsible for their disease-fighting properties. Numerous studies identify resveratrol, found in uniquely high concentrations in grapes, as a potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agent with potential to impact a wide variety of health issues from heart disease and cancer to Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s and other degenerative diseases.

Resveratrol, first identified in the 1940s, remained in obscurity until the 1990s when it gained prominence in the context of the French Paradox, the phenomena in which the French, despite regular consumption of a high-fat diet, suffer from less heart disease than other populations that consume a similar high-fat diet.  The apparent cardio protection was attributed to regular consumption of red wine, rich in reseveratrol, thanks to its main ingredient – grapes.

Human studies have shown that eating a variety of grapes may help support a healthy heart by improving blood flow, arterial flexibility and blood vessel function.  Grape components may also help prevent platelet aggregation, which can lead to clot formation.  Grapes also promote healthy arteries by helping prevent the oxidation of bad “LDL” cholesterol, which is a key contributor to the build-up of plaque in the arteries. 

 “Grape” News for High Blood Pressure

Animal studies indicate grapes may help keep blood pressure in check. In recent laboratory studies, rats were fed a salty diet and their blood pressures rose as a result. When grapes were added to their diet, blood pressure levels dropped, heart function improved and inflammation was reduced throughout their bodies.  These animals also showed fewer signs of heart damage compared to those that did not receive grapes in their diet.   

Resveratrol -- Beyond Heart Health 

Grapes’ natural mix of antioxidant phytonutrients help support a healthy heart and may offer an array of other health benefits.  Emerging laboratory research on grapes or grape components has demonstrated anti-cancer activities and the potential to help maintain brain health.  In laboratory studies, resveratrol has been shown to hinder the effects of cancer at all three stages of its development: initiation, promotion and progression [Athar et. al., 2007].  The resveratrol in grapes, but not the resveratrol found in wine, has also been associated with a reduced risk of breast cancer. [Levi, et al. 2005]

Numerous studies using human cells have been conducted related to other cancer sites including the colon, prostate, pancreas, stomach, skin and more.

Grapes and Brain Health

In preliminary studies, grapes seem to help protect brain health by counteracting oxidative stress and inflammation, or by targeting the actions of certain genes involved in disease of the brain, such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease.  Three studies showing promise include:

• A study of aging mice that were either consuming a diet with or without grapes found that the grape-enriched diet was able to increase the expression of critical target genes that block the Alzheimer's pathway and decrease inflammation in the brain. [Klein, et al. presented at Society for Neuroscience Annual Meeting, 2007]
• Resveratrol has been shown to help block the actions of beta amyloid peptide, a key protein that promotes the development of Alzheimer's. [Savaskan, et. al, 2003; Marambaud et al, 2005]
• Resveratrol and other antioxidants protected Parkinson's-like nerve cells against oxidative damage. [Frankel D and Schipper HM, 1999]

Today’s Science Confirms Ancient Beliefs

The belief that grapes have healing properties dates back to ancient times, long before scientific research gave grapes disease-fighting credibility. From Egyptians to the ancient Roman and Greek civilizations, philosophers and physicians heralded grapes for their medicinal and nutritional values.  Even Hippocrates, today known as the father of medicine, included red wine in nearly every remedy and used it as an antiseptic. Clearly they were on to the nutritional qualities of grapes and only now do we have the scientific research underway to demystify, understand and document the beneficial effects of grapes.

Eating Grapes of All Colors Makes A Bunch of Sense

Even prior to the recent nutritional findings, Americans have embraced grapes.  According to The Packer 2010 Fresh Trends Report, fresh grapes are one of America’s three favorite fruits, with grape purchases inching up one percentage point from 2008 to 2009.  Grapes are a definite mainstay in homes with children.  While grapes are most frequently eaten as a grab-and-go snack, they also are great additions to summertime recipes.

The Juicy Facts

Recognized for their sweet flavor and cool, crisp texture, fresh California table grapes enjoy a growing reputation as a nutrition powerhouse, identified for their multitude of health benefits. The nearly 500 antioxidants, including resveratrol, are responsible for their promoting properties. With wholesome, flavorful food choices a priority among today’s consumers, it’s not surprising that fresh grape consumption is growing.  Ideal as an out-of-hand snack, grapes also are quickly gaining popularity as an ingredient in wholesome tasty recipes.  During peak season from July through October, grapes are an item that belongs on every family’s shopping list.