While a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains is ALWAYS in style, certain foods can have a specific benefit and protective effect on the body.
PHYTONUTRIENTS, substances that are responsible for giving plants their fragrance, color and flavor, have recently been found to protect the human body from certain cancers and heart disease.
GRAPES and PHYTONUTRIENTS - Some "juicy facts"…
Grapes are loaded with phytonutrients. Specifically, resveratrol, which is found in the skin of grapes (and apples), has been found in preliminary studies to fight breast, liver and colon cancers, and plays a role in the reduction of heart disease and cholesterol levels!
….Bunches of good news for your heart!
"Red wine for a healthy heart"has been in the media spotlight recently, but research suggests that you don't have to drink wine to get the benefits of resveratrol, the phytonutrient in grapes. Just include more red and purple grapes, dark grape juice or even
raisins in your cooking and choices each day!
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Did you know that more grapes are grown around the world than any other fruit? |
A BUNCH of good ideas for adding grapes and raisins into your day!
BREAKFAST:
- Add raisins to oatmeal/ cold cereal
- Enjoy a glass of red grape juice
SNACKS:
- Pack fresh grapes for a refreshing mid-day snack
- Try frozen grapes for an icy snack
- Add raisins to trail mixes…sweet!
- Carry raisins for an energy boost!
MEALS:
- Toss grape halves or raisins in fresh salads or in a coleslaw mix!
- Add grapes or raisins on top of chicken, fish or pork for flavor…
Mango-Grape Salsa with Cilantro & Lime
Makes 4 cups. (per ½ cup salsa) Calories: 66, Protein: 1g, Fat: < 1g, Sodium: 148 mg
2 ripe mangoes, peeled, pitted & diced
2 cups halved seedless grapes
¼ cup minced red onion
2 Tbsp chopped fresh cilantro
2 Tbsp fresh lime juice
1 jalapeno pepper, seeded & minced
½ tsp salt (may omit to reduce sodium)
Combine all ingredients in a large bowl and mix well. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate until ready to serve. Serve with grilled chicken, pork tenderloin or fish such as salmon or swordfish. Enjoy…!
Recipe courtesy of: www.tablegrape.com
California Table Grape Commission
The SparkPeople Store!
