With a unique texture and sweetness, grapes are very popular and appreciated. It has a small round or oval shape, with a semi-translucent flesh encased by a smooth skin. Green, red, purple, and black, grapes can have different colors and come in different varieties, having edible seeds or being seedless.

BENEFITS AND SIGNIFICANCE

Source of phytonutrients: phenols and polyphenols are powerful antioxidants with anti-inflammatory properties. One of these is resveratrol, that may be able to slow or prevent the growth of tumors in lymph, liver, stomach, breast, colon, skin cancer, and leukemia. It is found in the skins of red grapes.

Flavonoids: like myricetin and quercetin, they help to reduce the damage caused by free radicals and slow down aging.

Increase nitric oxide levels in the blood, which prevents blood clots and assist in overall cardiovascular health. Therefore, grapes are an effective way to reduce the chances of heart attacks.

High potassium: Increasing potassium intake may help reduce the effects of sodium in people with high blood pressure.

Antioxidants: prevent the oxidation of LDL (bad) cholesterol, which blocks the blood vessels and is the main contributor to various coronary conditions.

Due to their high nutrient content, with vitamins and fibers, grapes also play an important role in ensuring a healthy and active life.

USAGE

The small berries have a big range of possible uses. It can be freshly eaten in salads, fruit bowls and as a between-meals snack. Also, medicine and food industries use the fruit to produce medicines, jams, jellies, and spreads. Most of the grape production however is used in the wine and other beverages production.