About Grapes
As a fresh fruit or dried raisin, grapes have always been considered a healthy snack. As nutritional research progresses, grapes and grape products such as juice and wine are showing up on the growing list of functional health foods that improve wellness and longevity while reducing the risk of disease.
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The Facts
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When classified as a type of fruit, grapes are considered berries. They fall into one of three categories; table grapes, wine grapes or raisin grapes. They can contain seeds or be seedless. Colors include green, red, bluish-black and purple and the skin of the grape contains most of its beneficial nutrients. Concord grapes and grape juice have been found to contain the most polyphenols and antioxidants.
Benefits
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Grapes and grape products such as raisins, juice and wine are becoming well known for their antioxidant content. Research conducted on a specific antioxidant, resveratrol, found in grapes indicates that this flavonoid may aid in the prevention of cancer, reduce the risk of Alzheimer's disease and promote anti-aging within the body. In addition, grapes contain manganese, vitamin B6, thiamin, potassium and vitamin C.
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History of
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It is believed that the grape originated in southwestern Asia, then appeared in south-central Europe. The Spanish are considered the first to bring grapes to the United States. From this point their ability to grow well in California was discovered leading the large wine industry on the West coast today. Grapes are grown in at least 90 countries across the world. The U.S. remains in the top four for grape producers worldwide following closely behind Italy, France and Spain.
Type
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There are three main types of grapes. European grapes are those which have the skin closely attached to the flesh. Included is Thompson, Emperor and Champagne or Black Corinth. North American grapes contain a flesh that is easily separated from the skin. This variety includes Concord, Niagara and Delaware. Finally, there are also French hybrid grapes.
Misconceptions
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While there are many benefits to drinking red wine, the recommendation for alcohol consumption remains at one drink for women and two drinks for men per day. One glass of red wine does contain resveratrol, but not enough to produce all the health benefits that have been discovered through research. You can increase your consumption of both fresh grapes with skin and grape juices to increase resveratrol intake without overdoing it on alcohol. Just be sure to choose 100 percent juices and limit the amount of sugar so you are gaining all the healthy benefits of grapes without unhealthy additives.
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Resources
- Photo Credit Chance Agrella, Free Range Stock
