The ever-evolving category of “superfoods” may have gained a new addition this week, as new research is revealing that a staple of the grocery store deserves recognition. According to research out of Western New England University, berries’ less famous cousin, grapes, are an incredible source of nutrients and antioxidants – that can have widespread health benefits.
According to the research, grapes are a natural source of over 1,600 compounds, including antioxidants and other polyphenols such as flavonoids, anthocyanidins, catechins, phenolic acids, resveratrol, and more. That’s all to say: these complex-sounding compounds come together to offer a myriad of health benefits, such as promoting healthy circulation, modulating cholesterol levels, supporting skin and brain health, maintaining gut health, and much more. In fact, grapes’ natural properties can go so far as to positively alter gene expression in your body.
Does it matter if you prefer red, purple, or green grapes? Yes and no. Generally speaking, darker grapes — especially red and purple varieties — are rich in anthocyanins, a type of antioxidant that gives them their color, as well as some antioxidants that may have anti-inflammatory and heart-protective properties. All told, these antioxidants can help protect your cells from damage. But green grapes can be similarly beneficial: they are a good source of vitamins C and K, as well as other beneficial compounds previously mentioned, like flavanols and polyphenols.
So do yourself a favor next time you’re at the store or farmer’s market, and pick up a bag of those crispy-looking grapes. It only takes about 1 cup a day to start reaping the benefits, but if you ask us, we find it hard to stop there.
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