If grapes are one of your favorite fruits, then you’ll be happy to learn that they can be quite good for you! Thankfully, they are available year-round. With so many different varieties, white, green, red and purple- you may be wondering, which ones are the healthiest? Let’s take a look at some of the nutrients found in grapes and their related health benefits.
- Vitamin C: We usually hear about fruits such as oranges when talking about vitamin C, but grapes are also an excellent source of vitamin C which supports our immune systems and can help our bodies fight bacterial and viral infections to stay healthy! Our body also needs vitamin C for healthy bones, skin and blood vessels!
- Antioxidants: Grapes contain several antioxidants which are substances that help protect our cells from free radicals, which can cause cell damage leading to cancer. Research has shown that the antioxidants found in grapes can help prevent cancer! These antioxidants also support our immune and heart health and can lower the risk of developing heart disease! In general, darker grapes, such as red and purple, contain more antioxidants than lighter colored white or green grapes.
- Fiber: Grapes are also a good source of fiber. Fiber helps our bodies lower cholesterol levels, acting as a “cleaner” to help to clear out the cholesterol that builds up in the bloodstream.
Fiber is also a “cleaner” in the sense that it helps to cleanse the intestinal tract. It promotes healthy digestion by helping to keep food flowing through the intestines to prevent constipation.
Finally, fiber can help with weight management by helping to curb appetite and allowing you to feel satisfied longer!
- Potassium: The “DASH” diet is an eating plan that has been shown to help control blood pressure, with a focus on low-sodium, high-potassium foods. Grapes contain potassium and fit well into a heart-healthy eating plan. Click here for more information on the DASH diet. Potassium is also essential to muscle and nerve function!
- Water: Our bodies need water to function properly. Grapes contain plenty of water to help keep you hydrated. Adequate hydration promotes digestion, helps normalize blood pressure, supports a healthy immune system and lubricates the joints, among other things! Check out our blog, “Resolve to drink more water”, for more helpful tips on staying hydrated.
Grapes make a great snack; a normal portion is about 1 cup. They can be added to a smoothie, fruit salad or charcuterie board… or even try eating them frozen as a refreshing treat to switch things up!