Health Benefits of Grapes
I’ve heard a number of people rave about the health benefits of grapes. Some claiming they can cure all kinds of diseases or conditions such as cancer, Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, or chronic fatigue syndrome, others believing them to be the ultimate in detox dieting. This is most likely due to grapes being used in alternative medicine such as ayurvedic medicine as well as The Grape Cure diet, which has been around for many years.
Recent research points to resveratrol as the chemical which is beneficial to our health. Resveratrol is mainly found in the skin of red grapes. It is believed to have the following benefits:
- Anti-cancer
- Anti-viral
- Neuro-protective
- Anti-aging
- Anti-inflammatory
- Life prolonging
It is also found in:
- Peanuts
- Blueberries
- Bilberries
- Cranberries
Scientific research into the health benefits of grapes and resveratrol is ongoing but the anecdotal evidence is interesting.
Why Buy Organic Grapes?
Many chemicals are used when growing grapes using conventional methods. In fact, they are one of the most heavily sprayed crops. Chemicals used on grapes include:
- Pesticides
- Fungicides
- Herbicides
Residues of these chemicals are found on table grapes as well as those used for wine production. Some of these chemicals are known to be detrimental to your health such as having negative effects on the central nervous system.
Why Not Grow Organic Grapes?
If you find organic grapes to be too expensive then why not plant a couple of vines in your backyard. Many years ago, it was common place to have a grape vine growing over your pergola. That seems to have gone out of fashion but grapes are relatively easy to grow and are suitable for most regions in Australia.
Home grown grapes are delicious - you can’t beat the taste and you know exactly which chemicals have been used on them (hopefully none). I have two vines in my backyard and that is more than enough for a small family.
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