Grapes, one of summer’s most beloved fruits, are more than just a sweet snack. According to a new study published in the Journal of Agriculture and Food Chemistry, a single grape contains over 1,600 bioactive compounds that benefit the heart, brain, skin, gut, and even genetic health.
Dr. John Pezzuto, a leading researcher on resveratrol—a key grape compound—and cancer at Western New England University in Massachusetts, highlights that the combined mix of compounds in grapes is what makes them exceptionally healthful, rather than any single substance.
Why Grapes Deserve ‘Superfood’ Status
The term “superfood” is widely used but lacks a strict scientific definition. However, many foods of the Mediterranean diet—rich in plant compounds and associated with long-term health—fit the profile. Dr. Pezzuto notes that grapes, often undervalued, should be recognized under this category.
A Natural Powerhouse of Nutrients
Grapes contain antioxidants and polyphenols, including flavonoids, anthocyanins, catechins, phenolic acids, and resveratrol. These compounds work together to influence cellular processes, protect against oxidative stress, and support overall health.
Heart, Brain, Skin, Gut, and Eye Benefits
More than 60 peer-reviewed studies confirm the cardiovascular benefits of grapes. They promote relaxation of blood vessels, improve circulation, and help lower cholesterol levels.
Clinical trials also show that grapes support cognitive function and brain metabolism, enhance skin resilience against UV damage, protect DNA in skin cells, maintain gut flora balance, and promote eye health by benefiting the retina.
Impact at the Genetic Level
Remarkably, grapes may even influence gene expression across multiple organs. Dr. Pezzuto emphasizes that these genetic effects are a driving force behind the wide-ranging health benefits of grapes.
“Ian LeMay, president of the California Table Grape Commission, affirms that based on scientific evidence, grapes truly deserve recognition as a superfood,” the study concludes.
