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GrapesA serving of fresh grapes (around 1 cup or 18 grapes) is a good source of vitamins A, K and C. Grapes also contain helpful quantities of the minerals potassium, calcium, boron and manganese. The nutrients of Grapes are particularly useful for maintaining healthy bones and joints. Grapes also contain the phytonutrients rsveratrol and quercetin which are thought to be helpful for cellular health and disease prevention.
Vitamin K has two forms, one we are able to make ourselves, the other source being plant foods such as grapes. One function of vitamin K is to assist in the regulation of how we use calcium and the effective metabolism of bone. Grapes also contain the mineral boron which is thought to also contribute to these processes relative to bone and joint health. When we consume whole foods like grapes, healthy balanced amounts of these nutrients are available to work synergistically enabling the maintenance of strong bones through effective metabolism and storage of calcium. It is a normal process for the calcium to be retrieved from our bones for nerve and muscle functions, and then for new calcium to be absorbed from the diet to restore reserves. The metabolic processes which control how this happens rely on an array of nutrients including Vitamin K and Boron.
Rsveratrol is the phytonutrient in both the flesh and skin of grapes. Because rsveratrol is present in wine made from grapes, it is suggested that is why the French diet which is high in animal fat does not lead to the expected incidences of cardiovascular disease. Rsveratrol has been shown in initial studies to reduce the potential for cholesterol to deposit on arteries which is a lead contributor for hypertension and heart disease. Grapes are also a good source of the phytonutrient quercetin which has been shown to be a natural anti-inflammatory and helpful for reducing some allergic sensitivity. People sensitive to allergies are recommended to avoid histamine foods and increase foods, such as grapes, that have anti-histamine properties. Alongside being an excellent source of nutrients, grapes are also an excellent form of dietary fibre.
Information supplied by Steph Askeur |