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Grapes,
Concord and Red
May help prevent: cancer, heart disease, high blood pressure, osteoporosis
Grape juice tops the chart as the most antioxidant-rich juice, supplying
four times as much antioxidant power as any other juice. The many types
of anthocyanin pigments provide an intense deep purple colour and give
the grape similar stardom to the blueberry. Grapes contain numerous phytochemicals
including anthocyanin pigments, flavonoids, phenolic acids and tannins
that work together to promote heart health and fight cancer. Grapes protect
against heart disease by blocking the oxidation of LDL cholesterol, increasing
artery elasticity, reducing the development of atherosclerosis, and reducing
the formation of blood clots. Preliminary research indicates that a polyphenolic
compound called resveratrol found in grapes can interfere with tumor
growth in several ways, reducing the risk of cancer. Grapes also contain
the mineral boron, which may prevent against osteoporosis.
Action Tip: Be sure to
look for 100% grape juice or juice combination and enjoy a glass with
a snack or a meal. Grapes are also delicious on their
own, tossed in salads, or frozen for a hot summer’s treat. Once
in a while, enjoy a glass of red wine.
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