Beyond The 12 Grapes Tradition: Why Grapes Are The Ultimate Winter Superfood

The world welcomed the new year recently with enthusiasm and festive fervour. During this time, social media was full of reels of different trends, best party spots and fun traditions as well. One such tradition that caught everyone’s attention a few years back is that of eating grapes at midnight. It is actually an international custom. Here, you need to eat 12 grapes under the table. This tradition originates from Spain and is called Las Doce Uvas de la Suerte, which translates to ‘The Twelve Grapes of Luck’. As per the tradition, when the clock strikes 12, people eat one grape with each chime. They do this to bring good luck, prosperity, and happiness in the coming year.

Since grapes have been trending on our feed, let us tell you that this fruit is a winter superfood. Yes, you read that right. Would you like to know why grapes are beneficial in winter? To get a comprehensive view on this, Divya Gandhi, Dietician and Nutritionist at Divya Gandhi's Diet & Nutrition Clinic, Delhi.

Are Grapes Good For Health In Winter?

First things first, are grapes actually beneficial in winter? “Grapes are a nutritious fruit that can be enjoyed during winter, but moderation is key. They're rich in vitamins C and K, antioxidants, and fiber, which can help boost immunity, support heart health, and promote digestion,” shares Gandhi.

On this note, the expert lists down some of its benefits in the colder months:

• Immunity Boost: Grapes contain vitamin C, which helps fight off colds and flu.
• Heart Health: Antioxidants and polyphenols in grapes support cardiovascular health.
• Digestive Health: Fiber in grapes promotes regular bowel movements and gut health.
• Skin Health: Antioxidants and vitamin C in grapes protect skin from damage and promote collagen production.
• Energy Boost: Natural sugars in grapes provide a quick energy boost.

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Who Should Avoid Grapes In Winter?

But are grapes good for everyone in winter? Gandhi shares who all should avoid this fruit in the chilly months:

• People with Respiratory Issues: Grapes can exacerbate conditions like asthma or bronchitis.
• Those with Digestive Issues: Grapes can be difficult to digest for people with sensitive stomachs.
• Individuals with High Sugar Intake: Grapes are high in natural sugars, so moderation is advised.

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On this note, let us take a look at the side effects of eating grapes in winter:

• Consuming large quantities of grapes may cause diarrhea.
• Some people can have allergic reactions to grapes and grape products.
• Grapes may cause cough, dry mouth, and headache.
• There is not enough reliable information to know if grapes are safe or not for pregnant or breast-feeding women.
• Whole grapes are believed to be a potential choking hazard for children aged 5 years and below. They should be sliced into half or quarters before being served to children.

Also Read: Green Vs Red Grapes: Know Which One Is Healthier And Best Time For Eating

Grapes As Immunity Boosting Food In Winter

One of the main benefits of grapes in winter is that they are good for the immune system. No matter what variety of grapes you eat, be it black or green, they are delicious and packed with essential nutrients. This fruit is a rich source of fibre as well, which makes them a healthy option for your digestive system. Moreover, grapes are rich in anthocyanins and resveratrol. These phytochemicals make grapes a potent food to reduce inflammation and lower the risk of developing several chronic inflammatory disorders.

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On this note, Gandhi lists down other winter fruits which are good for health:

• Oranges: Rich in vitamin C, supporting immune function.
• Pomegranates: High in antioxidants, promoting heart health and immunity.
• Kiwis: Excellent source of vitamin C, supporting immune function.
• Apples: Rich in fiber, promoting digestive health.
• Pears: Good source of fiber and antioxidants, supporting overall health.

Adding winter fruits to your diet every day helps boost your immunity. Thereby, keeping seasonal colds, viral infections, and other winter diseases at bay. These fruits can be added to cereal bowls, fruit smoothies, and in other recipes.

Also Read: Grapes: Health Benefits And When Is The Right Time To Have It?

The Final Word

Grapes are a nutritious fruit that can be enjoyed during winter, but moderation is key. They're rich in vitamins C and K, antioxidants, and fiber, which can help boost immunity, support heart health, and promote digestion.