NEW YORK, BRONX (ORDO News) — A recent randomized controlled trial has shed light on the potential of grapes to improve eye health outcomes among older adults, providing valuable insights into the protective benefits of this fruit for retinal structure and function. Published in the scientific journal Food & Function, this study represents the first of its kind in humans, building upon earlier preliminary research that indicated grapes’ positive effects on retinal health.
Older individuals face an elevated risk of developing eye diseases and experiencing vision problems, primarily due to factors such as oxidative stress and the accumulation of advanced glycation end-products (AGEs) within the eye. AGEs contribute to retinal vessel damage, cellular dysfunction, oxidative stress, and the development of various eye conditions.
Dietary antioxidants play a crucial role in mitigating oxidative stress and inhibiting the formation of AGEs, thus promoting retinal well-being. Among the natural sources of antioxidants and polyphenols, grapes have garnered attention for their potential eye-health benefits.
The study was conducted as a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial in Singapore, spanning a duration of 16 weeks. Thirty-four elderly participants were enlisted to consume either 46 grams of freeze-dried table grape powder or an equivalent amount of placebo powder (control group) daily.
The researchers conducted assessments every four weeks, monitoring macular pigment optical density, carotenoid antioxidant levels in the skin, AGE levels, and dietary lutein intake. Additionally, lutein concentration, total antioxidant capacity, and total phenolic content in plasma were measured every eight weeks.
The results demonstrated that individuals who consumed grape powder experienced significant increases in macular pigment optical density, plasma antioxidant capacity, and total phenolic content compared to those in the placebo group. Notably, participants in the control group exhibited a significant increase in AGE levels in the skin.
Dr. Jung Eun Kim, one of the study’s authors, emphasized the significance of these findings, stating, “Our study is the first to show that eating grapes has beneficial effects on eye health. This is encouraging given the growth of the planet’s aging population. Grapes are a simple and affordable product, and one and a half cups of these fruits a day are enough for a positive effect.”
Beyond their potential eye-health benefits, grapes offer a myriad of advantages for overall health. With over 150 flavonoids and numerous antioxidants, grapes contribute to maintaining youthfulness, boosting immunity, supporting cardiovascular health, and even aiding in cancer prevention. Furthermore, grape consumption is associated with increased gut bacteria diversity and reduced cholesterol levels.
However, it’s essential to exercise moderation when consuming grapes, considering their calorie content and the possibility of allergic reactions or bloating. As with any food, nutritionists recommend consuming grapes in moderation to harness their health benefits effectively.
—
Online:
News agencies contributed to this report, edited and published by ORDO News editors.
Contact us: [email protected]
Our Standards, Terms of Use: Standard Terms And Conditions.
To eliminate any confusion arising from different time zones and daylight saving changes, all times displayed on our platforms are in Coordinated Universal Time (UTC).