Wednesday, July 22, 2009

Grapes! Sweet, Juicy Cure




Grapes, red contain bioflavonoids, powerful antioxidants that work as cancer preventives. Grapes are also a rich source of resveratrol, which inhibits the enzymes that can stimulate cancer-cell growth and suppress immune response. They also contain ellagic acid, a compound that blocks enzymes that are necessary for cancer cells - this appears to help slow the growth of tumors.

Alternative practitioners recommend the use of grapes and parts of the grape plant for high blood pressure, menopause, varicose veins, high cholesterol, skin rashes, and urination problems. They also claim it works for inflammation of the gums, throat, eyes, and mouth. Although used rarely today, the grape diet (see below) was promoted at different times in the twentieth century as a treatment to flush toxins from the body and protect the body against cancer and virtually all other diseases. Some supporters believed that the diet cured cancer.
Evidence suggests that proanthocyanidins,the chemical found in grape seed extract are powerful antioxidants. Antioxidants are compounds that block the action of free radicals, activated oxygen molecules that can damage cells. Proponents claim that these antioxidants inhibit the development of some types of cancer, protect against heart disease, and are useful for treating a variety of medical conditions such as arthritis, allergies, circulatory problems, diabetes, water retention, and vision problems.
A compound called resveratrol, which is found in the skins of red grapes is being studied to see how it affects the development and progression of heart disease and cancer.

Grape Nutritional Facts, for 100 grams:
Calories: 69
Calories from Fat: 1
Saturated Fat: 0g
Trans Fat: 0g
Total Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 0mg
Sodium: 2mg
Total Carbohydrates: 18g
Dietary Fiber: 1g
Sugars: 15g
Protein: 1g
Vitamins
Vitamin A: 1%
Vitamin C: 18%
Vitamin K: 18%
Calcium: 1%
Iron: 2%