Why Eating Grapes Can Save Your Life

Researchers at the University of Michigan Health System have recently concluded a study on the effects of grapes in preventing cardiovascular disease and metabolic syndrome.  Scientists discovered that the phytochemicals contained in regular table grapes (green, red and black) contain high levels of natural antioxidants that have a dramatic effect on reducing the risk of high blood pressure and other heart disease related disorders.

A study of rats prone to being overweight showed that those rats given a grape enriched diet (composed of a powdered compound made from regular table grapes) had lower blood pressure, better heart function and reduced inflammation it the blood and heart than the control group of rats had.

Interestingly, the rats fed the grape powder did not actually lose any weight.  Yet the results showed that the health benefits nevertheless were present.  As such, scientists speculate that the beneficial effects of the grapes are present even when weight loss (one of the typical recommendations for preventing heart disease and the like), is not. 

The study suggests that the phytochemicals in the grapes are responsible for protecting the heart against inflammation and oxidative damage.  Because of the associations between high blood pressure, heart disease and diabetes and because of the nearly epidemic proportions of these diseases in the developed world today, this study is very important for researchers.  If the simple act of eating grapes can help protect the body from these serious disorders than there is very good reason for individuals to start indulging in this healthy snack.

While scientists and physicians continue to maintain that the real key to preventing heart disease and other serious disorders involves eating a healthy diet, getting regular exercise and cutting out saturated and trans fats in order to reduce cholesterol levels, grapes and other fruits rich in antioxidants should certainly form a component of this advice. 

As health officials and nutritionists have long known a diet rich in vegetables and fruits can go a long way to protecting the body from illness.  Serious disorders such as heart disease and diabetes are associated with a variety of lifestyle factors which are preventable.  Trading in the Ben and Jerry’s for some fresh grapes as an after dinner snack is a great way to make a small change that can nevertheless have some profound effects.  So eat those grapes and stop griping—they just may be saving your life.