Savoring the Harvest of Grapes

     Savoring the Harvest of Grapes    

 

by Margie Bates

webcoach4health@gmail.com

 

The history of grapes dates back as probably the oldest cultivated fruit.  In fact, grapes have been found in Egyptian tombs and during the pre-Christ era.  Maybe the longtime history of grapes as much to do with the many health benefits of grapes?  The botanical name for grapes is "namily vitaceae", with over 10,000 varieties worldwide.  The benefits of this global fruit can be found in grape juice and in the fresh fruit.

Grapes are rich in Vitamin A, C, and B6.  While some grape varieties have ample supplies of minerals, such as calcium, folate, potassium, manganese, zinc, copper, and iron.  Besides the vitamin and mineral benefits, there are phytonutrients in black grapes, called anthocyanins.  All of the benefits are highlighted in the following:

 

• Vitamin A

This vitamin, also called retinol, keeps your eyes, skin and membranes moist and also helps for your eyes to adjust to light.

 

• Vitamin C

Vitamin C, also called ascorbic acid, prevents cell damage; assist in healing wounds; strengthens the immune system; helps to absorb iron; and promotes healthy teeth and gums.

 

• Vitamin B6

Also known as pyridoxine, this vitamin:  reduces levels of heart attack risks; helps the brain to function; and helps the body convert protein into energy.

 

• Anthocyanins

This powerful phytonutrient is a type of bioflavonoid that strengthens collagen protein; lowers blood pressure; prevents colon, cervical, and prostate cancer. 

 

• Calcium

One of the most important minerals prevents muscle spasms; helps in formation of bones and teeth; and helps in the formation of blood.

 

• Folate

Also known as Vitamin B9, helps in prevention of colon cancer; prevention of heart disease; facilitates in cell repair and formation of red and white blood cells.

 

• Potassium

The third most abundant mineral in humans:  helps in prevention of strokes, heart disease and kidney disorders; lowers blood pressure; reduces stress and anxiety; maintains water balance and our electrolytic functions.

 

• Manganese

Works in conjunction with calcium to ensure bone formation and metabolism; prevention of thyroid and sex hormones disorders; regulates blood sugar levels; and helps in the metabolism of fats and carbohydrates.

 

• Zinc

A mineral with benefits to maintain proper function of our immune and digestive systems; control diabetes; helps in lower stress levels; assist in weight and appetite loss; and assist in eye and hair care.

 

• Copper

A mineral that helps in:  prevention of arthritis; provides protection of skeletal, nervous and cardiovascular systems; and provides coloration to our skin, hair, and eyes.

 

• Iron

The major benefit of iron is the transporting of oxygen to our blood cell; prevention of anemia; regulation of our body temperature; proper functions of our muscles and brain.