Imagine yourself sitting at your office desk, working diligently on a project. Suddenly, you feel a pang of hunger and reach for a bunch of grapes placed conveniently on your desk. Grapes, a common fruit found in every household, are not only delicious but also packed with health benefits. In this article, we will explore the nutritional value and health benefits of green and red grapes and discuss the best time to enjoy them.
Health Benefits Of Grapes
1) Loaded With Antioxidant
Grapes are loaded with antioxidants, including resveratrol, flavonoids, and phenolic acids. According to Delhi-based dietician Priya Bansal, MSc Nutrition, formerly worked at Apollo Hospital, Delhi, "These compounds help protect the body against free radicals, reducing the risk of chronic diseases and supporting overall health."
2) Heart Health
Bansal stated that the antioxidants in grapes promote cardiovascular health by reducing inflammation, preventing blood clots, and improving blood flow.
Also Read: Is There A Right Time To Eat Fruits? Expert Decodes
3) Digestive Aid
"Grapes are a great source of dietary fibre, aiding in digestion and promoting regular bowel movements," said Bansal. The fibre content also helps maintain a healthy gut by feeding beneficial gut bacteria, she added.
4) Immune Booster
Bansal highlighted that grapes, especially green ones, are rich in vitamin C, an essential nutrient that strengthens the immune system, fights off infections, and supports overall immune health.
5) Skin Health
"The antioxidants and vitamins present in grapes can improve skin health by reducing oxidative stress, preventing signs of ageing, and promoting a healthy complexion," added Bansal.
Green Vs Red Grapes: Which One Is Healthier?
When it comes to comparing green and red grapes, it's important to note that both varieties offer similar health benefits. However, there are slight differences in their nutritional profiles and specific health-promoting compounds.
Green Grapes
Green grapes are known for their refreshing, slightly tart taste. Bansal said that they are an excellent source of vitamin K, which plays a role in blood clotting and bone health. Green grapes also contain higher amounts of certain flavonoids, such as catechins and quercetin, which have anti-inflammatory properties, she added.
Green Grapes Nutritional Value (per 100g):
- Calories: 69
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fibre: 1g
- Vitamin C: 10% of the Daily Value (DV)
- Vitamin K: 24% of the DV
Red Grapes
Red grapes are sweeter and juicier compared to green grapes. They are rich in resveratrol, a powerful antioxidant associated with various health benefits, including heart health, longevity, and reducing the risk of certain cancers. "Red grapes also contain higher levels of anthocyanins, the pigments responsible for their vibrant colour, which is known to reduce inflammation and improved cognitive function," stated Bansal.
Red Grapes Nutritional Value (per 100g):
- Calories: 69
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fibre: 1g
- Vitamin C: 4% of the DV
- Vitamin K: 14% of the DV
Best Time For Eating Grapes
Also Read: 5 Advantages Of Eating At least One Fruit A Day
Morning
Starting your day with grapes can provide a refreshing boost of energy. "You can mix them with a small quantity of yoghurt or cottage cheese for a balanced snack that contains fibre, antioxidants, and key minerals," Bansal concluded.
[Disclaimer: The information in this article is provided by a registered medical practitioner. However, we recommend you consult your dietician for accurate diagnosis and treatment.]
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