4 ways grapes promote health and youth

Grapes contain various types of polyphenols that promote health. The polyphenols in skin, juice and seeds of grapes include resveratrol, anthocyanins, phenolic acids and flavonoids. Grapes also contain high levels of vitamins K and C.

1. Healthy Brain - Polyphenols in grapes, particularly resveratrol, have been linked to prevention of brain neurodegenerative disorders such as Alzheimer's disease. Given the anti-oxidant and gene regulating actions of resveratrol, this is perhaps not surprising. Preventing inflammation and providing the brain with plenty of different types of anti-oxidants keeps it in tip top shape!

2. Healthy Heart -- The polyphenols in grapes also slow the oxidation of bad cholestrol (LDL - low density lipoprotein), decrease blot clots and reduce abnormal heart rhythms. In patients with hypertention (high blood pressure), these polyphenols reduce blood pressure. You may have heard of the French paradox, which refers to the fact that while French people tend to eat high amounts of animal fat, heart disease continues to be low in France, largely due to the polyphenols from commonly consumed wines.

3. Healthy Skin -- Eating grapes is also great for the skin, since the skin is exposed to a variety of environmental factors (sun, pollution, etc). Grapeseed oil also makes an excellent and nutritious emollient for the skin. It is not only moisturizing, but also provides the skin with vitamins, fatty acids, polyphenols and tannins. These promote the health and look of the skin and protect it from environmental damage.

4. Healthy body -- These polyphenols prevent damage caused by oxidative stress in the whole body and preserve many types of cells. Red or black grapes contain more polyphenols than green ones but all of them are great for snacking and incorporating into foods! So next time you are at the store, grab yourself and the family some grapes!