- Muscadine grapes are a species native to the southern part of America, and have been grown since the 16th century. They are very commonly used in fine wines and have shown health benefits.
- Let’s look at the health benefits of muscadine grapes.
- Anti-inflammatory properties:
- The antioxidants in grapes work as anti-inflammatory agents. Inflammation is known as a risk factor for many chronic diseases, including arthritis, heart disease, and many types of cancers.
- Antioxidant rich:
- Muscadine grapes are an excellent source of antioxidants such as vitamin C, manganese and beta-carotene. These antioxidants protect the cells from the effects of oxidative stress.
- Dr. Andrew Weil defines oxidative stress as, “the total burden placed on organisms by the constant production of free radicals in the normal course of metabolism plus whatever other pressures the environment brings to bear (natural and artificial radiation, toxins in air, food and water; and miscellaneous sources of oxidizing activity, such as tobacco smoke).”
- Blood sugar benefits:
- Muscadine grapes are a low glycemic index food, meaning that they don’t cause spikes in blood sugar.
- A study published in the Journal of Nutrition shows that grapes may provide benefits to persons with type 2 diabetes by regulating blood sugar and insulin.
- Cancer prevention:
- The antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of muscadine grapes make them a great anti-cancer food. A study published in a journal called Frontiers In Bioscience, a compound called resveratrol was shown to help fight colon cancer.
- Another study published in the Journal of Nutritional Biochemistry showed that a compound in grapes called piceatannol was able to stop the spreading and invasion of prostate cancer cells.
- Heart health:
- As we have seen, the antioxidants in muscadine grapes protect our blood from oxidation. This is essential for heart health, especially in the arteries. The anti-inflammatory properties of grapes also help reduce the risk of atherosclerosis and other conditions. A study published in the European Journal of Clinical Nutrition showed that a polyphenol compound called resveratrol had the ability to reduce LDL cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of heart disease.
- Immune booster:
- Because of their high levels of antioxidants and vitamins, grapes including muscadines are great immune boosters. A study in the Journal of Nutrition confirmed the immune boosting effects of grapes.
- Longevity:
- In addition to being great for the heart and cancer prevention, resveratrol has other great health benefits as well. A study published in a journal called Gene & Nutrition showed that resveratrol benefits our longevity genes and may increase lifespan.
- Note: None of the information in our website is intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any illness or disease. The content on our website is for educational purposes only.
- For the health benefits of grapes.
- For the health benefits of blueberries.
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- REFERENCES:
- 1. “Grapes, Wines, Resveratrol, and Heart Health.” National Center for Biotechnology Information. U.S. National Library of Medicine, n.d. Web. 28 Feb. 2014.
- 2. “Grapes and Cardiovascular Disease.” National Center for Biotechnology Information. U.S. National Library of Medicine, n.d. Web. 28 Feb. 201414.
- 3. “Anti-atherogenic Effects of Resveratrol.” National Center for Biotechnology Information. U.S. National Library of Medicine, n.d. Web. 28 Feb. 2014.
- 4. “Type 2 Diabetes and Glycemic Response to Grapes or Grape Products.” Journal of Nutrition. N.p., n.d. Web. 28 Feb. 2014.
- 5. “Longevity Nutrients Resveratrol, Wines and Grapes.” Genes & Nutrition, Mar. 2010. Web. 28 Feb. 2014.
- 6. “Grape Consumption Supports Immunity in Animals and Humans.” National Center for Biotechnology Information. U.S. National Library of Medicine, n.d. Web. 28 Feb. 2014.
- 7. “Resveratrol Potentiates Grape Seed Extract Induced Human Colon Cancer Cell Apoptosis.” National Center for Biotechnology Information. Frontiers in Bioscience, n.d. Web. 28 Feb. 2014.
- 8. “Piceatannol Inhibits Migration and Invasion of Prostate Cancer Cells: Possible Mediation by Decreased Interleukin-6 Signaling.” National Center for Biotechnology Information. Journal of Nutritional Biochemistry, n.d. Web. 28 Feb. 2014.
