2023-10-08 14:31:04
New Study Finds Eating Grapes Improves Eye Health in Older People
A recent study conducted by researchers from the National University of Singapore has revealed that regular consumption of grapes can improve key indicators of eye health in older individuals. The study, published in the journal Food & Function, focused on the effects of consuming grapes on the accumulation of macular pigment and other essential indicators of eye health, which typically decline with age.
The findings of this study reinforce previous research that demonstrated the protective properties of grape consumption on the structure and function of the retina in animals. However, this study is unique as it is the first of its kind to demonstrate the beneficial effects of grape consumption on humans.
Dr. Jung-Eun Kim, one of the researchers involved in the study, expressed excitement about the results in a statement: “Our study is the first to show that grape consumption has a beneficial effect on eye health in humans, which is very exciting, especially with the increasing rates of population aging.”
Aging is known to increase the risk of eye diseases and vision problems. Oxidative stress and high levels of food end products that raise blood sugar levels are among the main risk factors for these conditions. These factors can damage the vascular components of the retina and impair cellular functions. However, dietary antioxidants have been shown to reduce oxidative stress and prevent the formation of harmful effects, potentially benefiting the retina by improving macular pigment density.
Grapes, being a natural source of antioxidants and beneficial polyphenols, prove to be a promising option in this regard. In the study, 34 participants consumed either grapes (equivalent to 1.5 cups per day) or a placebo for 16 weeks. The individuals who consumed grapes demonstrated a significant increase in antioxidants compared to those who took the placebo. Blood plasma components and total phenolic content also reflected this positive change. In contrast, the individuals who did not consume grapes experienced a noticeable increase in harmful aging symptoms, as indicated by changes in their skin.
Dr. Kim further commented on the study’s findings, stating, “Grapes are a fruit available to everyone and easy to access, and studies have shown that they can have a beneficial effect in normal quantities of only 1.5 cups per day.”
With the prevalence of eye diseases and the aging population, this research offers valuable insights into the potential benefits of incorporating grapes into the diet. Further studies are needed to delve deeper into the specific mechanisms by which grapes improve eye health, but for now, the evidence supports the idea that this readily available fruit may hold the key to maintaining and protecting healthy vision in older individuals.]
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