With a large survey study published in the journal Nutrients, researchers once again confirm the benefits of plants in the daily diet. The use of grapes in the diet helps reduce cholesterol in the blood, besides improving beneficial bacteria in the intestine.
“Grapes are one of the most widely consumed fruits“, Professor Zhaoping Li and colleagues working at the University of California commented. “Not only are they packed with phytochemicals, such as catechins, proanthocyanidins, anthocyanins, leucoanthocyanidins, quercetin, kaempferol, stilbene, the natural antioxidants ellagic acid, and hydroxycinnamates, but they’re also a good source of dietary fiber.“.
“Antitoxic, antibacterial and antiviral properties of grapes, grape extracts or grape phellonic compounds have been mentioned in previous reports.“.
In the experiment, the team fed rabbits an atherogenic diet, while adding raisins to the meal. Results showed that grape nutrition improved liver function and arteriosclerosis formation in rabbits.
“A recent study in rats found that regular grape consumption can also reduce obesity and improve fatty deposits in the liver, and is linked to improved gut bacteria.,” said the group of experts.
Experiments demonstrate the benefits of using grapes in daily meals. Experimental adding grape powder to the diet can increase the diversity of beneficial bacteria in the intestine, and improve the mechanism of cholesterol and acid metabolism from bile. Grapes also create a better living environment for Akkermansia, a beneficial bacteria in glucose and lipid metabolism.
Model of an ancient wine-carrying boat in the Mediterranean.
Thanks to a diet containing grapes, blood cholesterol levels and bile acids both decreased. “We found grapes to have a beneficial effect on gut bacteria, which is good news as a healthy abdomen is paramount for good health.“.
“This study increases our understanding of grapes and expands the list of health benefits that grapes have to offer, and reinforces the heart-health-related benefits of grapes, as it lowers cholesterol levels.,” concluded the group.
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