All About Grapes
By Amy Silva
Did you know grapes are a type of berry? This versatile fruit comes in different colors and are a refreshing and healthy snack when eaten right off the vine. Grapes also have various flavor profiles making them perfect for various food dishes and beverages. There are even new varieties being created that have unique shapes and flavors, and seedless varieties for convenience. Grapes also have health benefits making them an even better addition to your diet if you don't often consume them.
About Grapes
Grapes are grown all over the world and are believed to have been enjoyed in ancient societies such as Greece and Egypt. There are over 60 species and different varieties are grown for different uses. Harvesting occurs at a different time depending on what the grapes will be used for. Some types of grapes are grown specifically to be enjoyed from the vine, some are crushed and turned into juice or wine and others are great for canning and making into jellies and jams. There's even one variety that's mostly turned into raisins.
Potential Health Benefits of Grapes
Grapes are packed with antioxidants, contain fiber, vitamins and minerals. They have a high Vitamin C content, and also include Vitamin A, Vitamin B, calcium, copper and iron. Some of the vitamins and minerals in grapes may help strengthen bones. Poylphenols, micro nutrients that are found in grapes, could lower inflammation and raise good cholesterol. Consuming grapes could also help prevent diabetes and certain cancers such as breast and prostate cancers.
Varieties of Grapes
Common varieties of grapes and a few new ones you may not have heard of include:
- Concord - A widely popular variety in grape juices and jams and jellies with a purple skin
- Cotton candy - A newer white grape variety with green skin that tastes like cotton candy
- Crimson seedless - The most common red grapes in stores, they're also known as red seedless grapes
- Moon drops - This new grape variety has an unexpected tubular shape and a deep purple color, though they are red grapes
- Sultana - Sultana grapes are small and are the main type of grapes used to make raisins
Adding grapes to your diet could improve health and help prevent certain health conditions. There are various flavors and different ways to incorporate them into food dishes and drinks. New varieties are being created which include fun flavors and new shapes.
To learn more about your health, wellness and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in River Oaks, Tex.