Forget apples, a few grapes should keep the doctor away

According to a new study from the US, eating grapes may help to reduce the risk of heart disease in men. How do you like those apples? Or should that be grapes?

We’ve all heard the rhyme ‘An apple a day keeps the doctor away’, however, it looks as though we’ve been eating the wrong fruit – or not enough of the right one.

Okay, so eating an apple a day won’t save you from having to see the doctor every now and again, but apparently, grapes lower several key risk factors for heart disease in men with metabolic syndrome. Great news we think you’ll agree, but you might be wondering ‘what is metabolic syndrome?’

Well, a quick search will tell you that metabolic syndrome consists of a few different conditions that occur together, mainly increased blood pressure, a high blood sugar level and excess body fat around the waist. If you suffer from metabolic syndrome then you could have an increased risk of developing heart disease, stroke and/or diabetes.

But why are the researchers from the Department of Nutritional Sciences at the University of Connecticut suggesting grapes? The benefits of eating grapes over a sustained period, according to the researchers, included reduced blood pressure, improved blood flow and reduced inflammation.

So, if you’re suffering from metabolic syndrome then you might want to stock up on some fruit.