Grapes are an ancient food that, beyond being the fundamental ingredient of wine and therefore an essential element of our culture through a thousand forms, have a high nutritional level and should be part of a healthy diet.
They have been consumed since prehistoric times, and the Greeks and Romans worshiped them through their respective wine gods, Dionysus and Bacchus. It belongs to the Vitaceae family and is a berry that has given rise to many varieties, although the most obvious classification is the one that divides them into black and white grapes. The former are rich in anthocyanins and resveratrol, antioxidants that produce multiple benefits for our health, while the white ones include quercetin, a flavonoid with anti-inflammatory effects.
Despite their reputation as a food with a lot of sugar, grapes do not have a high glycemic index and are not very caloric - 100 grams provide 70 calories - and what's more, they help regulate blood glucose levels. In addition, rich in fiber and carbohydrates (17%) that are quickly assimilated; They contain vitamin C and their minerals include potassium, copper and iron, but also calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, manganese, sulfur and selenium.
One of its most notable aspects is its purifying capacity. They contain more than 80% water that helps lighten the body, and its calcium (15 mg/100 g) and other alkaline elements stimulate the liver (an organ that balances the acidity of the blood and cleans it). Its phytochemicals help blood glycemic balance, because they stimulate the pancreas and insulin production. For all these reasons, the WHO recommends its regular consumption.
Raw grapes are delicious and versatile, they lend themselves to being part of fruit salads, mueslis, cakes and all kinds of sweets. But we can also incorporate them into savory recipes to achieve a sweet and sour touch.
