grapes Archives - Amazing Health Advances

Grapes: A Simple Fruit with an Impressive List of Health Benefits

The AHA! Team — Mon, 09 Dec 2024 06:34:26 +0000

Olivia Cook via Natural News – Grapes have been cherished by civilizations for thousands of years. From ancient Egyptians and Greeks to modern-day tables, grapes have been enjoyed fresh from the vine, freeze-dried, pressed into juice or fermented into wine, symbolizing abundance and life. The ability of grapes to thrive in various climates – from warm Mediterranean regions to colder winters – makes them a constant presence year-round. But beyond their history and versatility, grapes are a nutritional powerhouse that offer an impressive list of health benefits. Often called “nature’s candy” for their natural sweetness, grapes are packed with nutrients that can help protect your body from a wide range of health conditions. They contain a mix of natural phytocompounds, essential vitamins, minerals and antioxidants – all of which work together to support overall health. Rich in nutrients A cup of grapes (about 151 grams) provides vitamin K (18 percent of your daily value or DV), which plays a key role in blood clotting and bone health. You’ll also get a dose of vitamin C (five percent of DV), known for its immune-boosting properties and vitamin E (two percent of DV), which supports skin health and acts as an antioxidant. The B vitamins in grapes, including thiamine (B1, riboflavin (B2) and pyridoxine (B6), help your body convert food into energy, support brain health and maintain proper function of the nervous system. Grapes are also an excellent source of minerals such as copper (21 percent of DV), essential for the formation of red blood cells, potassium (six percent of DV, which helps control blood pressure and manganese (five percent of DV), crucial for bone health and metabolism. Antioxidant powerhouse One of the key reasons grapes are so beneficial for health is their high concentration of antioxidants. These naturally occurring compounds play a vital role in protecting your cells from damage caused by harmful molecules known as free radicals. When free radicals accumulate, they can lead to oxidative stress, which is linked to chronic conditions such as heart disease, diabetes and even cancer. What makes grapes particularly remarkable is that they contain over 1,600 different plant compounds, many of which have potent antioxidant properties. These include anthocyanins, phenolic acids, polyphenols, proanthocyanidins and stilbenes – names you might not hear every day, but they are critical for keeping your body’s cells healthy. The antioxidants in grapes are largely found in their skins and seeds, which is why you often hear that red grapes (and red wine are particularly good for you. Red grapes owe their rich color to anthocyanins, a type of flavonoid that gives fruits their vibrant blue, orange, pink, red and purple hues. Grapes also contain two highly praised antioxidants – resveratrol (stilbene) and quercetin (flavonol). These compounds have been studied for their potential to lower blood sugar, protect against heart disease and reduce the risk of certain types of cancer. Resveratrol, in particular, has gained attention for its anti-aging properties as it helps to reduce inflammation and protect your cells from damage. Supports brain health and cognitive function A 12-week study published in Frontiers in Pharmacology involving more than 100 older adults found that a daily grape supplement of 250 mg led to notable improvements in attention, language skills and memory. In younger adults, research in the European Journal of Nutrition demonstrated that consuming 230 ml of grape juice accelerated memory-related tasks and enhanced mood within just 20 minutes. Additionally, a study in Scientific Reports suggests that resveratrol may reduce brain inflammation and help eliminate amyloid-beta peptide – a protein associated with the development of Alzheimer’s disease. Helps combat cancer Grapes are rich in potent antioxidants like anthocyanins, catechins and quercetin, which help combat cancer. Research has shown promising results, with a study published in Translational Oncology revealing that grape extracts can inhibit the growth and spread of human breast and colon cancer cells in lab tests and animal studies. Human trials also show encouraging outcomes. In a study published in Nutrition Journal, adults over 50 who consumed 150 to 450 grams of grapes daily for two weeks exhibited a reduction in markers associated with colon cancer risk. Further evidence highlights the benefits of polyphenol proanthocyanidins – compounds in grapes that offer protection against cancers of the bladder, cervix, liver and prostate. This was supported by findings from a 2022 study published in Foods. Another standout antioxidant, resveratrol, has demonstrated the ability to interfere with all stages of cancer development. A 2023 review published in Nutrients suggests that resveratrol, present in both red grapes and red wine, lowers the risk of cancers like breast cancer, colorectal cancer and non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma – making moderate red wine consumption a potentially protective habit. Supports heart health Research shows that grapes can support cardiovascular function in several ways. Grapes are a good source of potassium, offering about six percent of your daily needs in just one cup. Potassium is essential for regulating blood pressure; it helps relax blood vessels – allowing blood to flow more easily and reducing the strain on your heart. In addition to that, potassium helps your body get rid of excess sodium, further protecting against high blood pressure. However, balance is key; a review of 32 studies published in the Journal of the American Heart Association found that both too much and too little potassium could increase blood pressure. Grapes are also rich in polyphenols that help protect against high cholesterol. Studies have shown that these compounds can lower LDL (bad) cholesterol by decreasing its absorption in the intestines. An 8-week study involving people with high cholesterol found that consuming 3 cups of red grapes daily significantly reduced total and LDL cholesterol levels. Interestingly, white grapes didn’t have the same effect, likely because red grapes have higher concentrations of resveratrol. Reduces insulin resistance Moreover, grapes contain compounds that may enhance insulin sensitivity, A review of 29 studies published in Phytotherapy Research found that both grapes and grape supplements significantly reduced insulin resistance – partly due to resveratrol, which helps by boosting glucose receptor activity on cell membranes; enhancing insulin production; increasing insulin sensitivity; lowering insulin resistance and protecting insulin-producing beta cells in the pancreas. Supports gut health With grapes containing 81 percent water, they are a great choice for staying hydrated and supporting regular digestion. Proper hydration helps maintain smooth bowel movements and can reduce the risk of constipation, which is often characterized by infrequent stools and a sense of incomplete evacuation. The fiber found in whole grapes is also another digestive booster. Unlike fruit juices, whole fruits like grapes are known to help alleviate constipation by speeding up the passage of stool through the digestive tract – increasing stool weight and promoting more frequent bowel movements. A study published in Frontiers in Nutrition indicates that a higher intake of fruits like grapes can positively impact gut health by influencing gut bacteria, improving stool consistency and boosting stood frequency, which can be especially beneficial for those experiencing functional constipation. Supports eye health Grapes are packed with beneficial plant compounds that promote eye health, including provitamin A carotenoids, lutein, zeaxanthin and a bit of alpha-linolenic acid (ALA). These nutrients work together to improve visual performance, maintain eye health and help prevent age-related eye diseases, Research published in the International Journal of Molecular Sciences highlights the protective effects of resveratrol on retinal cells against ultraviolet A (UVA) light. This protection may reduce the risk of age-related macular degeneration – a leading cause of vision loss. Additionally, a review in Nutrients suggests that resveratrol may offer protection against eye conditions, such as cataracts, diabetic eye disease and glaucoma. Read more stories like this at SuperFood.news. Learn how grapes affect your body by watching the video here. This video is from the Daily Videos channel on Brighteon.com. More related stories: Grapes: Versatile fruit with health benefits. How eating red grapes can help fight off cancer. Study: Resveratrol, a compound found in grapes, can protect against cognitive decline. Sources include: DPI.Wi.gov FDC.NAL.USDA.gov TandFonline.com – PubMed.NCBI.NLM.NIH.gov 1 NCBI.NLM.NIH.gov 1 PubMed.NCBI.NLM.NIH.gov 2 PubMed.NCBI.NLM.NIH.gov 3 PubMed.NCBI.NLM.NIH.gov 4 NCBI.NLM.NIH.gov 2 PubMed.NCBI.NLM.NIH.gov 5 NCBI.NLM.NIH.gov 3 NCBI.NLM.NIH.gov 4 NCBI.NLM.NIH.gov 5 NCBI.NLM.NIH.gov 6 PubMed.NCBI.NLM.NIH.gov 6 PubMed.NCBI.NLM.NIH.gov 7 PubMed.NCBI.NLM.NIH.gov 8 NCBI.NLM.NIH.gov 7 NCBI.NLM.NIH.gov 8 NCBI.NLM.NIH.gov 9 Brighteon.com To read the original article, click here

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Antioxidants in Grapes Found to Reduce Cancer Risk

The AHA! Team — Mon, 25 Nov 2024 06:07:00 +0000

Olivia Cook via Natural News – Recent studies have found that the antioxidants found in grapes may have anticancer properties. As the global quest for natural cancer-fighting solutions continues, there is increasing concern about the rising incidence of cancer among adolescents and young adults. Despite advancements in treatment, these methods are often costly, invasive and associated with significant adverse side effects. Fruits play a vital role in a healthy, plant-based diet. They combat inflammation and chronic conditions that lead to cancer. The shift in focus toward prevention is seen as a promising alternative. Antioxidants prevent damage to cells by neutralizing harmful molecules called free radicals. Without antioxidants, free radicals can cause DNA damage which could lead to cancer. (Related: Sermon 49: Mike Adams discusses GRAPES as God’s amazing natural medicine and nutrient powerhouse.) Grapes are rich in various antioxidants – particularly phenolic compounds – which are known for their potential health benefits. Key antioxidants in grapes include anthocyanins, catechins, phenolic acids, procyanidins and resveratrol. Fresh grapes contain between 63 and 182 milligrams of these phenolic compounds per 100 grams. Most of these antioxidants are concentrated in grape skins and seeds. Anthocyanins are the predominant flavonoids in red grapes. Meanwhile, grape seed extracts have shown high concentrations of flavonoids like catechin and epicatechin, as well as phenolic acids like caffeic and gallic acids. Resveratrol, another prominent antioxidant, is mainly found in grape skins but in lower concentrations. Grape phenolic compounds and their anticancer properties Grape antioxidants, especially those found in grape seeds, have shown promising effects in fighting various types of cancer. These compounds are known as grape seed proanthocyanidins. These have been effective in laboratory studies for inhibiting the growth of cancer cells in the following ways: Breast cancer. A special grape seed extract rich in procyanidins interferes with the breast cancer cell’s key growth signaling pathways – leading to a halt in cell division and growth. Colon cancer. Grape seed extracts and other grape components stop cell growth and induce cell death (apoptosis). The combination of resveratrol, with grape seed extracts enhances these effects by affecting key proteins involved in cell death and growth. Head and neck cancer. Grape seed extract causes cell cycle arrest, which means stopping cells from dividing, thus inducing cell death. This is achieved through activating processes that check for DNA damage and increasing harmful reactive oxygen species inside cells, which leads to cell death. Grape seed extract also affects key proteins that help the cancer cells move and invade other tissues. Lung cancer. In non-small-cell lung cancer, which is a common type of lung cancer, grape seed proanthocyanidins can increase proteins that promote cell death and decrease proteins that protect cancer cells. They also disrupt the mitochondria and activate certain enzymes involved in cell death. Oral cancer. Grape seed extract halts oral cancer growth and induces cell death in a dose-dependent manner, which means more grape seed extracts lead to greater effects. It also reduces the cancer cells’ ability to suppress enzymes that allow cancer cells to migrate and invade other tissues. Prostate cancer. Grape seed extract can block certain enzymes that help cancer cells grow and invade healthy tissues. It also reduces the activity of proteins that promote cancer spread. Skin cancer. In melanoma, a serious skin cancer, grape seed proanthocyanidins can reduce the ability of cancer cells to invade and migrate. This effect is linked to a decrease in specific proteins that contribute to cancer cell movement. These study findings suggest that grape seed antioxidants could be a valuable addition to cancer prevention and treatment strategies – offering natural options to support health and combat various cancers. Watch this video about the benefits of grape seed extract. This video is from the Holistic Herbalist channel on Brighteon.com. More related stories: Sermon 12: Mike Adams discusses the use of APRICOT KERNELS as an ANTICANCER treatment. Lycopene: Harnessing natural carotenoids for cancer prevention. The mighty BLUEBERRY, a superfruit with anticancer properties. Sources include: OnlineLibrary.Wiley.com Cancer.OSY.edu JAMANetwork.com Brighteon.com To read the original article, click here: https://www.naturalnews.com/2024-10-01-antioxidants-in-grapes-help-reduce-cancer-risk.html

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Red Wine “Waste” Could Extend Your Lifespan

AHA Publisher — Mon, 28 Nov 2022 08:00:18 +0000

Al Sears, MD, CNS – I enjoy drinking a nice glass of red wine with my grass-fed steak dinner. And the health benefits are an added bonus! But, it turns out the seeds from red grapes have even more health benefits than wine. These seeds – the same ones my brothers, sister, and I used to spit out at each other whenever we ate grapes – contain disease fighters so potent I call them super-antioxidants. In fact, a recent study from the National Institutes of Health backs up what I’ve been telling my patients for years… Grape seed extract’s antioxidant capacity can reduce the inflammatory process at the root of today’s chronic diseases. But, its regenerative benefits go even further… A breakthrough study published in the journal Nature Metabolism recently revealed grape seed extract successfully prolonged the lifespan of old mice by 9%.1 Researchers focused on a phenomenon known as cellular senescence – the process during which your cells lose function as your body ages. Specialized compounds called senolytics destroy these rogue cells, allowing the body to repair the damage. In the breakthrough study, researchers discovered a previously unidentified senolytic derived from a compound in grape seed extract called procyanidin C1, or PCC1. This newly discovered senolytic induces a type of programmed cell death called apoptosis in senescent cells while leaving healthy cells unharmed. In the new study, the mice were exposed to doses of radiation that caused them to develop abnormal features such as significant amounts of gray hair. They also lost muscle mass and suffered damage to their kidneys, livers, and lungs. But once the compound in the grape seed extract was introduced, this damage was reversed. According to the study authors, there’s no reason to believe that this compound can’t do the same for human beings. It’s just one more advantage to add to a growing list of benefits we get from these seeds. To date, they’ve been proven to: Dramatically reduce the risk of prostate cancer2 Improve blood sugar and insulin sensitivity3 Slow brain aging and increase cognitive function4 Boost HDL cholesterol and lower blood pressure5 Restore cardiovascular health6 Fight infections and kill germs7 Make Grape Seed Extract Part of Your Life There are two distinct ways to add the seeds of grapes to your diet. Grapeseed extract comes from the small seeds (and occasionally the skins) of red grapes – the same kind that is pressed to make wine. Grapeseed oil comes from the same seeds – but after the juice is pressed. Supplement With Grape Seed Extract: I recommend taking 250 mg of grape seed extract twice per day. It’s available in capsules, tablets, or in liquid form. Look for products that are standardized to 40 to 80% proanthocyanidin polyphenols. Cook with Grapeseed oil: Grapeseed oil is a joy to cook with. It smokes at a much higher temperature than olive oil – which means you can sauté and pan-sear your favorite meats, fish, and vegetables without burning anything. You can also rub fish or chicken with the oil before baking. To Your Good Health, Al Sears, MD, CNS References: 1. Xu Q, et al. “The flavonoid procyanidin c1 has chemotherapeutic activity and increases lifespan in mice.” Nat Metab. 2021 Dec 6. doi: 10.1038/s42255-021-00491-8. Online ahead of print. 2. “Garavaglia J, et al. “Grape seed oil compounds: biological and chemical actions for health.” Nutr Metab Insights. 2016 Aug 16;9:59-64. 3. Sapwarobol S, et al. “Postprandial blood glucose response to grape seed extract in healthy participants: A pilot study.” Pharmacogn Mag. 2012 Jul-Sep; 8(31): 192–196. 4. Bell L, et al. “Grape seed polyphenol extract and cognitive function in healthy young adults: a randomised, placebo-controlled, parallel-groups acute-on-chronic trial.” Nutr Neurosci. 2020 Jan 16;1-10. 5. Grohmann T, et al. “Efficacy of bilberry and grape seed extract supplement interventions to improve glucose and cholesterol metabolism and blood pressure in different populations-a systematic review of the literature.” Nutrients. 2021 May 17;13(5):1692. 6. Feringa H, et al. “The effect of grape seed extract on cardiovascular risk markers: a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. J Am Diet Assoc. 2011. Aug;111(8):1173-81. 7. Su X, Dsouza D. “Grape seed extract for control of human enteric viruses.” Appl Environ Microbiol. 2011 Jun; 77(12): 3982–3987. To read the original article click here.

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Natural Plant Compound in Grapes Protects Brain Health, Research Reveals

AHA Publisher — Wed, 24 Aug 2022 07:00:14 +0000

Lori Alton via NaturalHealth365 – Over the past few decades, resveratrol, a polyphenol found in grapes and berries, has generated a lot of “buzz,” with numerous – and well-publicized – studies attesting to the cardiovascular benefits of resveratrol-rich red wine. (Non-drinkers can get resveratrol through foods and supplements). But what else can this natural plant compound do? Claims for the health-promoting benefits of resveratrol have been coming thick and fast, with researchers crediting it with antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-aging, and anticancer effects. In fact, in a study published in the Journal of Neuroinflammation, scientists noted that resveratrol could protect brain cells in an unexpected way – by stimulating the destruction of specific proteins. Let’s explore the scientific research on this intriguing polyphenol. Benefits of Resveratrol May Include Hope for Treating Alzheimer’s Disease Resveratrol is classified as a phytoalexin, a sort of natural antibiotic that protects plants from fungal infection, blight, and ultraviolet radiation. Not unreasonably, scientists hope that resveratrol can extend its same protective benefits to human health. What is known is that resveratrol has powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activity that can cause it to reduce oxidative stress. But, this is not the only gift to health in resveratrol’s “bag of tricks.” According to David Sinclair, AO, PhD, a professor of genetics at Harvard Medical School, resveratrol induces autophagy – a type of cellular defense that targets old, damaged proteins for destruction and recycling. The study referenced by Dr. Sinclair, revealingly titled “Resveratrol regulates neuro-inflammation and induces adaptive immunity in Alzheimer’s disease,” also shows that resveratrol supplementation reduced cognitive and functional decline in Alzheimer’s patients. Earlier research supports these encouraging findings. In a 2018 study published in Biomedicine, researchers credited resveratrol with neuroprotective effects that could cause it to potentially act against Alzheimer’s, Huntingdon’s, and Parkinson’s diseases. The team reported that resveratrol promotes the clearance of beta-amyloid peptides – meaning that it may help reduce the deposit of harmful beta-amyloid plaques in the brain. It also reduces neuronal apoptosis – in other words, it prevents the death of brain cells. Resveratrol also offers neuroprotection to healthy individuals, so “topping up” on this beneficial compound may help protect cognitive function into old age. Resveratrol Supports Joint Health and Reduces Arthritic Inflammation Scientists have long been intrigued by the potential of resveratrol to ease inflammatory conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis (RA). While preliminary animal studies showed that resveratrol could suppress arthritic inflammation, human trials were clearly needed. In 2018, one took place. In a controlled study published in Clinical Rheumatology, researchers set out to study the therapeutic benefits of resveratrol for patients suffering from varying degrees of RA. One group received one gram of supplemental resveratrol – along with conventional treatment – a day for three months, while another group received only conventional treatment. The investigators found that the resveratrol group experienced less swelling and tenderness in joints and also had lowered levels of pro-inflammatory substances, including the “usual suspects” such as C-reactive protein, matrix metalloproteinase-3, necrosis factor-alpha, and interleukin-6. Boost Dietary Resveratrol With Tasty, Succulent Grapes and Berries You can ramp up your levels of dietary resveratrol by eating healthy amounts of grapes, blueberries, and pomegranates. Of course, opt for organic produce whenever possible. While red grapes are commonly believed to contain more resveratrol than green grapes, the American Institute for Cancer Research reports that the amount of resveratrol in grapes (which, by the way, is found mainly in the skins) is more dependent on growing conditions than on the color or type of grape. (When it comes to wine made from grapes, however, red wine contains more than white wine – as grape skins are used in making it). While red wine is an excellent source of resveratrol, health experts point out that alcohol can increase the risk of several common cancers – so its consumption should be sharply limited. Grapes and berries, on the other hand, are a safe non-alcoholic source of resveratrol. Rich in beneficial dietary fiber, these fruits also contain anthocyanins, natural plant pigments with the ability to promote overall health. By the way, other benefits of resveratrol include protecting the heart and supporting pulmonary function. It has also been shown in cell studies to target cancer cells and act against tumors – without harming healthy cells. How Much Resveratrol Is Right for Me? Multiple clinical trials have used resveratrol up to 5 grams a day with no toxic side effects. However, in some studies, amounts of over 2.5 grams a day caused side effects such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. There has also been a paradoxical finding concerning resveratrol, with some studies suggesting that resveratrol can sometimes behave more like a pro-oxidant than an antioxidant – even causing DNA damage and oxidative stress. Researchers speculated that this phenomenon seems related to the amount consumed – and perhaps to the individual’s age – with more research clearly needed. Before supplementing with resveratrol, consult your integrative doctor to find the safest and most beneficial amount for you. Resveratrol has the potential to reduce inflammation and act against neurodegenerative conditions. The exciting possibilities of this natural plant compound have just begun to be explored. Sources for this article include: link.springer.com FoundMyFitness.com NIH.gov MedicalNewsToday.com NIH.gov AICR.org To read the original article click here.

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