Grapes are one of the fruits that  most people absolutely love. These fruits have a unique taste which can best be described as resembling caramel or vanilla.

The sweet and fulfilling taste makes many people enjoy grapes and it is probably the reason it is one of the oldest cultivated fruits.

Grapes are said to have been first cultivated in the Middle East about 6000 to 8000 years ago. This fruit grows in clusters and has naturally occurring yeast on them. This is what led to grapes being used in the making of wine. Ancients considered wine as a drink of choice for good health and digestion. Even children used to drink it.

Growing grapes was an economically viable exercise making those farming grapes to be considered as well to do. Currently, grapes are grown in many places in the world. Approximately 71 percent of world grape production used for wine. The remaining 29% s divided between fresh fruit, and dried fruit(27% & 2% respectively)

Reasons why you should consider including more grapes in your diet.

1. Polyphenols, a component of grapes, are the most important phytochemicals in this fruit. These compounds contribute to many biological activities and have some health-promoting benefits. Resveratrol is a polyphenol, which protects the body against damage that can put the body at a higher risk of cancer and heart disease. The skin of red grapes contain more polyphenol. This compound is also found in peanuts and berries. Grapes are also said to have anti-aging effects. Pregnant women are advised to stay away from resveratrol as it may cause complications during pregnancy.

2. A 2013 study published in the British Medical Journal concluded that the consumption of whole fruits, apples, blueberries, and grapes is significantly associated with a lower risk of developing type 2 diabetes.

3.  Grapes have a high potassium content. This suggests they can help reduce the effects of sodium in people with high blood pressure. Grapes also contain fiber which is important for maintaining a healthy cardiovascular system. Eating grapes can help improve heart health and blood pressure. Low intake of potassium has been linked to increased risks of high blood pressure, heart disease, and stroke.
4.  Filled with Vitamin C and antioxidants, grapes can help to revitalize your skin. In fact, they can even protect your skin from cancer-causing ultraviolet radiation and free radicals that can, on a lesser scale, cause wrinkles and dark spots. Grapes can be considered a natural healing alternative to skin care products such the Ultrasonic skin scrubber.

More on Fruits:

Why You Should Eat More Mangoes

Mango is one of the sweetest tropical fruits that you can ever eat. They are so colorful and come in different flavors, sizes, and shapes. Mangoes are one of the most popular fruits in the world. Their skin can be eaten though many people prefer not to. The skin can act as a reservoir for pesticides or some may be are allergic to it.

Mangoes normally grow in warm climates with India growing and consuming most of this fruit mostly because this fruit originated from there.

Mangoes are eaten by slicing them while taking care not to hit the large seed at its center. You can eat it raw or freeze it as a treat.

You can easily include mangoes in your diet by freezing them as an ice cube in your cocktail, make them into a chutney, jam, or a smoothie.

The consumption of mangoes is very beneficial and here are a few things that you did not know about enjoying this wonderful fruit :

Some common benefits of Mangoes

• This pulpy fruit is considered an aphrodisiac because it helps increase virility in men. The Vitamin E present in this fruit helps increase blood flow and oxygen to your genitalia. This vitamin is important for stamina and energy.

• Mangoes contain an antioxidant that plays a very important role in eye health preventing damage from macular degeneration.They are also loaded with antioxidants making them very good in keeping your blood sugar levels in check.

• Mangoes are high in fiber which helps in improving digestion. The fiber in colon cells is what fuels the cells to be healthy and helps the digestive tract flowing by keeping your bowel movements soft and regular. 

• Vitamin C in mangoes helps in the production of collagen which helps the skin to remain elastic and helps wounds heal as it is the most important protein in connective tissue.

• Mangoes are also rich in folate which is necessary for cell division making it good for pregnant women as it helps eliminate cases of birth defects.

• Mangoes are rich in vitamin B6 which helps in improving brain function. They also contain glutamine acid which is used to improve memory and concentration.

What to note:

Please note that people with anemia should take care not to eat mangoes as they may lead to a rise in blood sugar levels. They should ask for doctor’s advice before proceeding