Grapes – gold in a bunch!

[19 October 2010 - 14h35]

Black or white, grapes are a true autumn fruit. Whether in the form of oil or juice, dried or fresh, grapes are bursting with goodness. They are a source of energy, minerals and antioxidants and are also very refreshing, so make the most of them before they disappear from the shelves ... until next year.

Grapes are rich in potassium, which is an excellent diuretic. Their high fibre content (0.7g/100g), found mainly in the skin and pips, gives them a useful laxative function. Grapes are also a rich source of vitamins A, B and C and of mineral salts and trace elements such as calcium, iron and magnesium. A great source of energy, grapes are recommended to anyone with major energy requirements such as children and sportsmen and women.

Grapes – good for the heart. Grapes – mainly black grapes – contain flavonoids. These make up the largest group of polyphenols, which are valued for their antioxidant properties. Found in the skin and the pips, these help protect the cardiovascular system.Grapes are therefore a genuine “heart protector”. They also beneficial to cholesterol and blood fluidity. Grapes contain resveratrol, an anticoagulant effective against circulation problems.

Good for the skin Polyphenols also help fight the signs of ageing by scavenging for the free radicals that are responsible for ageing. Many cosmetics manufacturers have realised this and are increasingly including grape extract in their products.

Grape detox More and more people are turning to a “grape detox” in the autumn season. Without going to the extremes of a mono diet, you can still get in the habit of eating grapes regularly to help get your body back into shape and balance.

How do you choose? When buying grapes, choose bunches that are not too tightly packed. The fruit should be firm, unblemished and neither soft nor wrinkly. The bloom, the powdery white coating that the grape produces to protect itself from the sun, is a good way of judging ripeness. The stem should be green, bendy and breakable but not dry. You can keep grapes in the vegetable drawer of your fridge or in a cool place for 4 to 6 days.

Raisins and sultanas These have the same properties as fresh grapes and their high iron content makes them a valuable food for vegetarians and those suffering from anaemia. One final tip: if you put grapes in an airtight container you can keep them for months.

Source : Ma bible de la santé nature, Anne Dufour, Leducs éditions, 606 pages, €21.90

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