Grapes are a good source of vitamin C and potassium and also contain potent antioxidants called polyphenols. Polyphenols are responsible for grapes' color and most of its benefits. Evidence indicates that drinking grape juice daily may reduce your risk for heart disease by lowering certain risk factors.
LDL Oxidation
When low-density lipoprotein cholesterol undergoes oxidation, it changes particle size and becomes more likely to be deposited inside artery walls and increase your risk for heart disease. Scientists at the University of Wisconsin Medical School discovered that patients with coronary heart disease drinking grape juice reduced their risk of LDL cholesterol oxidation. The findings were reported in the September 1999 issue of the journal "Circulation."
Blood Vessel Function
Blood vessel dysfunction can cause narrowing of your arteries, leading to a decrease in blood flow and oxygen to the heart. Researchers at the University of Wisconsin Medical School performed a review of the scientific studies regarding the effects of grape products on blood vessel function. They concluded that grape juice is effective for improving blood vessel function and preventing hardening of the arteries, according to research reported in the 2002 issue of the "Advances in Experimental Medicine and Biology."
Hypertension
High blood pressure increases inflammation of your arteries, causing the heart to work harder to move blood through your body. Over time, high blood pressure puts extra strain on your heart, increasing your risk for heart disease. According to NutraIngredients.com, researchers at the Nutrition and Metabolism Research Unit at Radiant Research in Chicago observed that men with hypertension who drank 12 oz. of Concord grape juice daily for 12 weeks reduced their blood pressure compared to those taking a placebo.
Interactions
Grape juice may interact with certain medications, such as blood thinners, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. In addition, keep in mind that grape juice contains a lot of sugar and should be part of a well-balanced diet to reduce heart disease.
References
- "Circulation"; Purple Grape Juice Improves Endothelial Function and Reduces the Susceptibility of LDL Cholesterol to Oxidation in Patients With Coronary Artery Disease; J.H. Stein, et al.; September 1999
- "Advances in Experimental Medicine and Biology"; Potential Health Benefits From the Flavonoids in Grape Products on Vascular Disease; J.D. Folts; 2002
- NutraIngredients.com; Grape Juice Brings Down Blood Pressure; April 2003
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Grape Seed
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