Grapes boosts heart health

Wednesday April 29, 2009 (foodconsumer.org) -- No one can argue that eating grapes is a good way to incorporate the FDA’s directive to consume a variety of colorful, antioxidant loaded fruits and vegetables. A recent study, however, indicates that by eating grapes, we’re getting even more bang for the nutritional buck.

The Grape Study

E. Mitchell Seymour of the University of Michigan’s Cardiovascular Center in Ann Arbor led a study to determine the cardiac benefits of grapes. For the study, the team used Dahl lab rats, which are sensitive to salt; the extra sodium manifests itself in a way that’s similar to humans – the rats respond with increased blood pressure.

Groups of twelve rats were given a high sodium diet. Once their blood pressure had risen sufficiently for testing, Seymour gave one group of rats grape powder consisting of green, white, red and Concord grape compounds, while the other group was given a popular blood pressure medicine called hydrazaline.

After 18 weeks, the rats given the grape powder had lower blood pressures and better heart function, plus fewer signs of the inevitable hypertension-induced heart damage. 

The rats given hydrazaline also had lower blood pressure, but they also showed signs of heart damage.

Lower Blood Pressure and Heart Protection: the Dynamic Duo.

Dr. Steven Boling, who was part of Seymour’s team, suspects that the flavonoids in the grapes provide phytochemicals that “turn on” a genetic protection process that prevents extensive heart damage in those who suffer from high blood pressure.

Over the long haul, those with high blood pressure run the risk of significant heart damage. According to Prevention, a 2006 study in France underscored the blood pressure lowering capability of grapes. Seymour’s Michigan study, according to the Journal of Gerontology/Biological Services, changes the “inevitable” chain of events that lead a person from hypertension to full blown heart failure. 

And, the entire grape offers those heart protecting flavonoids in abundance; the seed, peel and pulp are all chock full of phytochemicals.

Incorporating Grapes into the Diet

Although we have been informed of the benefits of eating a variety of fruits and vegetables, WebMD reports that only 35% of women and 39% of men over the age of 60 actually consume at least two servings of fruit per day. Only 6% eat three or more servings.

For the over 60 set, the availability of grapes makes them a logical choice when it comes to ramping up fruit intake. No peeling is necessary and they’re portable. They’re good as is, or as a frozen treat in summer. And best of all, they are a great way to nurture your heart.

(By Rachel Stockton, and edited by Heather Kelley)