Grapes have been used for various purposes since time immemorial. They have been used to make wine, juices, jams, and even raisins. However, grapes are not only tasty, but they are also packed with essential nutrients beneficial to the human body.
Grapes are known to possess antioxidants and vitamins necessary to keep the heart healthy. In this article, we explore some of the reasons why grapes are good for your heart.
Grapes are Rich in Antioxidants
Grapes’ darker varieties contain antioxidants known as polyphenols. These polyphenols include flavonoids, anthocyanins, and resveratrol. Polyphenols are essential in keeping the heart healthy by reducing oxidative stress.
Oxidative stress results from an imbalance between free radicals and antioxidants in the body. Polyphenols help reduce the production of free radicals responsible for oxidative stress.
Grapes can Lower Blood Pressure
Research shows that consuming grapes can lower systolic blood pressure levels. Systolic pressure occurs when the blood circulates through the body while the heart beats.
High systolic pressure causes stress to the heart, leading to the development of heart-related conditions such as heart disease and stroke. Grapes are rich in potassium, which helps reduce the negative effects of sodium on the body.
Grapes can Improve Cardiovascular Health
Cardiovascular disease occurs when the blood vessels supplying oxygenated blood to the heart become narrow or blocked. Such a situation may lead to heart attacks or even stroke.
Regular consumption of grapes protects the heart from cardiovascular diseases. This can be attributed to their anti-inflammatory properties and their ability to protect the heart from oxidative stress.
Grapes are Good for People with Type 2 Diabetes
Individuals with type 2 diabetes are at higher risk of developing heart-related conditions. Grapes have a low glycemic index, making them safe for consumption by people with type 2 diabetes.
The glycemic index is a scale that ranks foods according to their effect on blood sugar levels. Foods with low glycemic indices, such as grapes, have a minimal effect on blood sugar levels, making them safe for individuals with type 2 diabetes.
Grapes Can Boost Immunity
A strong immune system is essential in keeping heart-related diseases at bay. Grapes are rich in vitamins C and E. These vitamins support the immune system by boosting the production of white blood cells responsible for fighting diseases.
A strong immunity plays a significant role in preventing inflammation and heart-related conditions such as atherosclerosis.
Grapes can Lower Cholesterol Levels
High levels of bad cholesterol (LDL) in the body cause the development of atherosclerosis. Atherosclerosis is the accumulation of fats, cholesterol, and other substances in the arteries leading to narrowing or blockage.
Grapes contain compounds known as plant sterols that can help lower bad cholesterol levels in the body. This lowers the risk of developing heart-related conditions in the long run.
Grapes Can Reduce the Risk of Blood Clots
Blood clots can lead to the development of blocked arteries, stroke, and heart attacks. Grapes have compounds such as anthocyanins that help reduce the risk of blood clots.
Anthocyanins protect the arteries from inflammation, reducing the risk of developing atherosclerosis.
Grapes can Improve Brain Functionality
Grapes contain resveratrol, a compound responsible for improving the cognitive functionality of the brain. Resveratrol boosts blood flow to the brain, enhancing brain activity and reducing the risk of dementia.
This can also have positive effects on the heart, ensuring optimal mental and cardiovascular functionality.
Grapes are a Rich Source of Fiber
Consuming foods rich in fiber is beneficial in keeping the cardiovascular system healthy. A diet rich in fiber lowers bad cholesterol levels while maintaining good cholesterol levels.
Grapes contain soluble fiber that helps lower bad cholesterol levels, thus reducing the chances of developing heart-related diseases.
Grapes can Lower Inflammation
Inflammation has been linked to the development of heart-related diseases such as atherosclerosis and heart attacks. Grapes are rich in polyphenols that reduce inflammation in the body, protecting the heart from developing related conditions.
Grapes also contain resveratrol, a compound with anti-inflammatory properties that helps reduce body inflammation.