HEALTH NEWS YOU CAN USE- Eating Well
By: Dr. Robert Neposlan
A diet enriched by grapes may prevent the downhill sequence of heart failure after years of high blood pressure. A study suggests that grapes may prevent heart health risks beyond the simple blood pressure-lowering benefits that come from a diet rich in fruits and vegetables.
The heart-healthy benefits of grapes may be the result of the phytochemicals (naturally occurring antioxidants) activating a protective process in the genes that reduces damage to the heart muscle.
Researchers studied the effect regular table grapes had when added to the diets of rats. After 18 weeks, the rats that received the grape-enriched diet powder had lower blood pressure, better heart function, and fewer signs of heart muscle damage. The grape powder even outshined the blood pressure medication hydrazine which did lower the rats’ blood pressure but did not protect their hearts from damage.
Another study found grapes also go a long way toward preventing clogged arteries. Compared to the control group that was given water, those given grapes or grape juice experienced several health benefits, including:
• Lower cholesterol
• Less oxidative stress
• Less fat accumulation in their aorta
Grape seeds have also been shown to improve flexibility in joints, arteries and body tissues such as your heart. Other research studies have shown grape seed helps improve blood circulation by strengthening capillaries, arteries and veins.
Grape seeds are powerful antioxidants, and their extract is rich in a particular phytochemical called proanthocyanidins. Scientific studies 
have shown the antioxidant power of proanthocyanidins is 20 times stronger than vitamin C and 50 times stronger than vitamin E.
When enjoying fruits it’s important to eat them in whole, fresh form, as this way you get access to all of their beneficial properties. In the case of grapes, 90 percent of the nutritional health benefit is located in the skin and seeds. If you are someone with diabetes, cholesterol or weight issues then watching your insulin levels and limiting your sugar intake is a definite concern. Supplementation of a quality nutritional supplement is your safe alternative. Please do not hesitate to discuss probiotic use and nutritional supplementation with me. I would love to help you choose the product that is right for you and your body.
Until next week,
Eat well
Dr. Rob