Eating foods rich in polyphenols
(naturally occurring plant compounds known to have antioxidant activity and
other health benefits) from grapes, including red wine, helps reduce the risk
of heart disease, according to a review article in the November, 2008, issue of
Nutrition Research.
Grape seeds, grape skin, and grape juice
contain several types of polyphenols, including resveratrol, phenolic acids, anthocyanin,
and flavonoids. The report concludes that grape polyphenols can help to:
- Slow or prevent cell damage caused by oxidation. In particular, these compounds help decrease the oxidation of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, (LDL, also known as the "bad" cholesterol). Preventing oxidation is an important step in deterring the development of atherosclerosis.
- Reduce blood clotting and abnormal heart rhythms.
- Lower blood pressure in patients with hypertension.
So by all means, enjoy fresh, preferably
organic grapes often, and seek out deep red or black varieties, as these tend
to have even higher polyphenol levels than common green grapes. And if you
already drink red wine, continue to enjoy it in moderation, as recommended in
my anti-inflammatory food pyramid.
