Posts Tagged ‘black grapes’

Grapes are the sweet way to health; for many Americans with high blood pressure and insulin resistance.

Grapes Health Benefits

The focus of a study at the University of Michigan Health system was to test the effect of grapes in reducing risk factors related to cardiovascular disease and metabolic syndrome.

Researchers studied the effect of regular table grapes (a blend of green, red and black grapes) that were mixed into a powdered form and integrated into the diets of laboratory rats as part of a high-fat, American style diet. All of the rats used were from a research breed that is prone to being overweight.

The researchers performed comparisons between the rats consuming a grape-enriched diet and control rats receiving no grape powder. Researchers added calories, and sugars to the control group to balance the extra calories and sugars gained from getting the grape powder.

Findings from a new animal study was presented at the Experimental Biology convention in Anaheim, Calif., showed encouraging results of a grape-enriched diet preventing risk factors for metabolic syndrome. This is a condition affecting an estimated 50 million Americans and is often a precursor to type 2 diabetes.

After three months, the rats that received the grape-enriched diet had lower blood pressure, better heart function, and reduced indicators of inflammation in the heart and blood than the rats who received no grape powder. Rats also had lower triglycerides and improved glucose tolerance.

Phytochemicals In Grapes

The key focus should be the phytochemicals in grapes. The emerging evidence is that phytochemicals offer protection from all diseases. People who want to lower their blood pressure, reduce their risk of diabetes, and help their weakened hearts retain as much pumping power as possible should eat a whole foods diet. This means a diet that includes plenty of fruits and vegetables.

Grapes are instrumental in providing high levels of antioxidants, which are good for the heart. Emerging studies are proving that fruits and vegetables deliver what they promise, sweet goodness.