If you are taking blood thinners check with your medical provider about consuming grapes and the amount that is allowed due to the Vitamin K.
Lydia Atieno
Grapes are berries and the earliest domesticated fruit crop, which is cultivated for use as a fruit, in juices, jams, jellies, pies, and wines. They are green, red or blue-black. Some grapes are seedless, while others have seeds, some of which are edible.
Although grapes are not locally grown, they are imported and one can access them in some local supermarkets such as Simba Supermarket in town, New Frulep next to Rwandex.
The benefits
Studies show that only one cup of grapes provides about a quarter of one’s daily vitamin C needs, nearly 20 percent for vitamin K, and at least 10 percent for copper. In addition to supporting immunity, vitamin C is needed for DNA repair.
Joseph Uwiragiye, the head of the nutrition department at the University Teaching Hospital of Kigali (CHUK), says vitamin C also significantly boosts the absorption of iron from plant foods.
He says that a higher blood level of vitamin C is tied to increase fat burning, both during exercise and at rest. Vitamin K is required for bone formation, and a shortfall is linked to increased fracture risk.
The copper in grapes, he says, plays a role in energy production, plus the formation of collagen and red blood cells. Grapes also provide smaller amounts of several key nutrients, including B vitamins, potassium, and manganese.
In addition to the vitamins C and A presence which is vital for immunity, Uwiragiye says grapes support the immune system through their natural anti-microbial properties.
A one-cup portion also supplies about two and a half ounces of water, which is important for hydration, circulation and healthy blood flow, and waste elimination.
Grapes contain lutein and zeaxanthin, which have been known to protect the retina and eye lens.
They’ve been shown to increase visual range, lessen discomfort from glare, enhance visual contrast, and reduce the time it takes the eyes to recover from the strain of bright lights.
Grapes also help lower the risk of macular degeneration and cataracts, two common eye disorders……
Read more: https://www.newtimes.co.rw/lifestyle/goodness-grapes
Source: New Times