Grape Phytonutrients
The Powerful polyphenols
“Phyto” comes from the ancient Greek word for plant. Phytonutrients are components that give a plant its color, taste, and even odor. Phytonutrients are also part of the plant’s self-defense system, protecting it from pests, viruses, bacteria, and excessive sunlight. All plants – fruits, vegetables, grains, nuts, herbs and spices – contain a variety of phytonutrients. Grapes contain over 1,600 phytonutrients, and that’s only what’s been identified so far.1
Besides keeping plants healthy, phytonutrients may also help maintain our health. Scientific research suggests that these components accomplish this feat in a variety of ways from promoting antioxidant activity to enhancing cell-to-cell communications which help maintain the health of our cells. This is a complex and fascinating area of research that is ongoing.
1. Pezzuto, J.M. (2008). Grapes and human health: a perspective. Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry, 56 (16), 6777-84.
GRAPE POLYPHENOLS: THE BASIC ESSENTIALS
The most significant among the grape phytonutrients is a “family” of compounds called polyphenols. All grapes—red, green, and black—contain polyphenols. They are found in every part of the grape: the skin, the flesh, and the seeds.
Polyphenols promote antioxidant activity and influence cell-to-cell communications. Numerous studies suggest that polyphenols contribute to heart health, with emerging evidence suggesting that they may also play a role in healthy aging.
RESVERATROL: THE POLYPHENOL "PHENOM"
Resveratrol is something of a celebrity in the polyphenol family because it has garnered much scientific and media attention. Resveratrol is being studied throughout the world for a vast array of promising potential health benefits, including heart health and protection from certain cancers.
Grapes are one of the main natural dietary sources of resveratrol. All colors of grapes contain resveratrol, which is found in the grape skin.
Grapes offer hundreds more natural plant compounds – including many other polyphenols – that may work together with resveratrol to offer potential health benefits.
ABOUT California TABLE GRAPES
Californians have been cultivating grapes for more than two centuries. Today, 99 percent of U.S. table grapes are produced in California's warm, dry climate that is ideal for grape growing. With 89 grape varieties grown, California grapes come in three colors—green, red, and black—and are in season from May through January.
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