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Celebrations are happy and memorable parts of our lives. Special foods bring much pleasure during celebrations – a wedding, a christening, Christmas, a send-off party or a promotion. There is one perfect food that comes to my mind during these times – grapes!
Grape vines had been cultivated since the dawn of time. It was believed to be a native of northwest Asia. Now, grapes are grown throughout Europe and North America. They were very popular in the Roman Empire. The Romans even had a god of wine named Bacchus.
Phytochemicals in Grapes
There is evidence that certain compounds called phytochemicals – specifically polyphenols such as resveratrol and anthocyanins – are present in the skin and seeds of the grapes. They have antioxidant effects. Accordingly, eating seedless grapes decreases the potential of grapes as a functional food. Cancer research demonstrated that the phytochemicals in grapes can control estrogen production. In turn, it negatively affects cancer growth. This was particularly useful in breast and prostate cancer- two types of cancer that are hormone dependent.
And here’s another astonishing discovery in consuming this luscious fruit. Further cancer research showed that grapes can inhibit cancer angiogenesis. Truly, these yummy berries and flavorful grape wine are excellent functional foods to incorporate in our diet.
Adding grapes and grape product like wine to our daily diet is an easy choice. Who doesn’t love to eat grapes and sip red wine? Nevertheless, consuming red wine should be done in moderation. For men 2 glasses are ideal while for women a glass is recommended.
We can eat those delectable grapes daily but let’s add additional 4-9 functional foods to our diet. And let’s never ever forget to exercise for at least 30 minutes every day. That way we’re always ready to beat cancer anytime.