Elizabeth Bailey
Grapes are not only delicious but also very healthy: grapes have a positive effect on the immune system.
Grapes score with numerous healthy properties: They are good for the immune system, help with detoxification, and are full of valuable ingredients. The fruit is very popular worldwide. While table grapes end up on the plate, wine grapes are used to make wine and are less palatable and fresh. Colloquially, however, both varieties are usually referred to as grapes or simply as grapes. Here you will find everything you need to know at a glance.
Grapes: the nutritional values
Grapes are almost fat-free. The fiber also boosts digestion. However, fruits contain a relatively large amount of fructose. In terms of calories, grapes are in the upper midfield compared to other types of fruit. Green and red grapes hardly differ from each other in this respect.
100 grams of fresh grapes contain:
- Energy: 67 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 15.2 g
- Protein: 0.7g
- Dietary fiber: 1.5 g
- Fat: 0.3g
That’s why grapes are so healthy
Grapes, like many fruits, are mostly made up of water. But that’s not all: grapes contain the valuable ingredients resveratrol and OPC from the group of polyphenols. These are plant substances that have a positive effect on blood circulation. They, therefore, prevent cardiovascular diseases and can also lower cholesterol levels. They are also suspected of slowing down the aging process and preventing cancer because they serve to protect cells. OPC also protects against infections and helps the body absorb vitamins C and E. A not inconsiderable proportion of the polyphenols are in the seeds, which is why you should eat them as well.
In addition to the healthy plant substances, the grapes also contain vitamins C and E, which have an antioxidant effect and also help with cell protection. Iron, which is important for blood formation, can also be found in fruits. They also contain minerals such as potassium and magnesium, which play a major role in the functioning of the nervous and muscular systems and regulate the body’s fluid balance. The consumption of grapes also helps with detoxification: the fruit is an ideal way to carry out a detoxification cure.
What is the best way to store grapes?
You benefit from the healthy ingredients in grapes for the longest time if you store them in the refrigerator. As a rule, however, they should be used within a few days. The fruits no longer ripen after harvest. Therefore, it is best to use ripe grapes when buying. Washing should be as thorough as possible to remove any pesticide residue. However, only wash the fruit just before eating it so as not to damage the protective layer on the skin of the berries. If you wash the grapes immediately after buying them and then store them for a few days, you risk mold growth.
How can grapes be enjoyed?
Most fruit lovers simply eat grapes on their own as a snack between meals. Due to the high fructose content, the feeling of hunger can be boosted by eating the grapes. Therefore, berries are less suitable as part of a diet. If it doesn’t bother you, you should eat the kernels as well, because they also contain many valuable ingredients.
Grapes can also be optimally integrated into savory dishes: the healthy fruits harmonize wonderfully with strong cheeses, for example. Grapes also go very well with a salad with nuts. If you have a lot of grapes to use, you can make jelly or use a juicer to process the fruit and seeds into juice.
Conclusion: Grapes are healthy and versatile
Grapes are full of healthy ingredients: they protect the immune system, serve to protect cells, and are even suspected of slowing down the aging process. The berries can be easily integrated into the menu. They are good as a snack and also go well with some hearty dishes. However, grapes contain a relatively large amount of fructose – which is why they also have an appetizing effect. Nevertheless, tasty fruits are an optimal part of a healthy diet.
