Moderate Intake Of Grapes Link To Blood Sugar Balance
When it comes to blood sugar benefits, grapes are not far-fetched. This is because of its low glycemic index, ranging between 43-53. Recent studies have shown that the low GI value of grapes is also a good indicator of its blood sugar benefits. Moderate intake of grapes have now been connected to better blood sugar balance, better insulin regulation, and increased insulin sensitivity.
Grapes contain a wealth of antioxidant nutrients that runs into hundreds, ranging from the conventional antioxidant nutrient like vitamin Cand manganese to antioxidant phytonutrients like beta-carotene and resveratrol. The hormone melatonin has also been identified in grapes and is known to act as an antioxidant.
Studies have shown that grapes, apart from protecting the cell membranes from free radical damage, helps prevent certain oxygen-related enzymes like xanthine oxidase and catalase from becoming overactive. They also reduce oxidation of fat and lower levels of oxygen reactive molecules in our blood. Regular consumption of grapes also increase our blood levels of glutathione, a critical antioxidant nutrient that boosts up our immune system.
Along with their strong antioxidant support, grapes provide us with equally strong anti-inflammatory benefits which makes them a natural for protection against cancer because chronic oxidative stress and chronic inflammation can be key factors in the development of cancer.
For the best tasting grapes with high concentrations of antioxidants, select those that are fully ripe. Fully ripened grapes are plump and free from wrinkles. They should be intact, firmly attached to a healthy looking stem, and not leaking juice.
Resveratrol, the polyphenolic phytochemical compound present in grapes, reduces stroke risk by altering the molecular mechanisms in the blood vessels. It does so firstly by reducing susceptibility of blood vessels damage through decreased activity of angiotensin (a systemic hormone causing blood vessel constriction that would otherwise elevate blood pressure) and secondly, through increased production of the vasodilator substance, nitric oxide (a beneficial compound that causes relaxation of blood vessels). Grape’s resveratrol may also play a role in longevity and may provide us with anti-aging benefits.
Daily consumption of grape juice may provide us with some important cognitive benefits. However, if you want to drink grape juice for health benefits, avoid products labelled as grape “drinks.” This is often an imitation high-sugar product with little real grape juice. You can actually take time to juice your grapes yourself!
Grapes are also good sources of vitamin K and B-complex vitamins such as pyridoxine, riboflavin, and thiamine.
source: vanguardngr
