Eating grapes could reduce dementia risk and help you to ‘live five years longer’, a recent study on mice suggests. Researchers discovered that including grapes in a high-fat diet might decrease the risk of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and boost antioxidant gene levels. These findings were published in the journal Food and have left researchers “astonished” at the potential benefits.
The team at Western New England University conducted the study and proposed that consuming grapes could add an extra four to five years to a human lifespan. Grapes are rich in antioxidants such as resveratrol and flavonoids, known for their anti-inflammatory properties. John M Pezzuto, a professor leading the research group, described the results as “truly remarkable” and highlighted the impact of food on genetic expression.
While many people rely on dietary supplements for antioxidants, Dr. Pezzuto emphasized that obtaining these nutrients from grapes could have a more significant effect. Another study by the same team revealed that grape consumption altered gene expression in the brain, leading to improved cognitive functions, even when following a high-fat diet. Grapes also showed promise in modifying genes associated with fatty liver development in mice.
Additionally, research published in the Food and Nutrition journal highlighted grapes’ positive effects on metabolism. The study was supported by funding from the California Table Grape Commission, which provided the grapes for the research. Dr. Pezzuto stressed the importance of dietary choices in influencing genetic expression and overall health outcomes.
The potential benefits of including grapes in the diet extend beyond antioxidant properties. The study’s implications suggest that grapes could play a role in preventing or delaying fatty liver disease, a prevalent condition that can lead to more severe liver complications. By understanding how certain foods impact gene expression, researchers are uncovering new possibilities for enhancing health and longevity.
As ongoing research explores the link between diet, genetics, and health outcomes, incorporating foods like grapes that are rich in beneficial compounds may offer a simple yet impactful way to support overall wellbeing. By making informed dietary choices, individuals can potentially reduce their risk of certain diseases and improve their quality of life in the long run.
This study underscores the importance of a balanced diet rich in antioxidants and highlights the potential role of specific foods, such as grapes, in promoting longevity and safeguarding against age-related conditions like dementia. As scientific understanding continues to evolve, incorporating nutrient-dense foods into daily meals may prove to be a valuable strategy for enhancing overall health and vitality.