Grapes are another great healthy food choice for a quick snack.These tiny berries are the storehouse of numerous health promoting phyto-nutrients. Those include poly-phenolic antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals. It's no small wonder why many of us include them as an important part of our diet, whether in the form of fresh table fruits, in juice, or in salads!
Grapes are rich in polyphenolic phytochemical compound resveratrol. Resveratrol is one of the most powerful anti-oxidants, and has been found to play a major role against cancers of the colon and prostate, coronary heart disease (CHD), degenerative nerve disease, Alzheimer's disease and viral and fungal infections.
Resveratrol can reduce the stroke risk by altering the molecular mechanisms in the blood vessels. It does so firstly by reducing susceptibility of blood vessel 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).
Grapes are also a rich source of iron, vitamin c, and potassium. So the next time you decide you want a quick healthy snack, make sure that you grab a handful of grapes! Remember, the food pyramid suggests we get four or more servings of fruit per day, and grapes are a natural, healthy choice.
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