The Importance of Grapes in Human Nutrition
Grapes are one of the oldest cultivated fruits in the world. Throughout history, they have been a significant source of nutrition for humanity, utilized in various ways. In our country, grapes are one of the most consumed fruits. They are eaten fresh or dried to be enjoyed as a snack during the winter months, juiced for drinking, or used to make compote. Grapes can also be made into wine, vinegar, and molasses. Additionally, different regional products such as grape leather and walnut sausage are prepared from grapes.
Grapes and grape products are extremely beneficial for human health. Numerous studies have been conducted in our country and around the world on the positive effects of these products on human health. Grapes provide energy through their glucose and fructose content. Moreover, they are highly beneficial for health due to their vitamins, minerals, amino acids, antioxidants, and phenolic compounds. Despite their high-calorie content, grapes contain very low amounts of fat and protein, making them an ideal dietary food.
Grapes help strengthen the human immune system and regulate kidney and liver functions. Grape and grape products help combat anemia and contribute to blood purification. Research indicates that grapes aid digestion, and resveratrol found in grapes protects the body against cancer. Additionally, phenolic compounds in grapes are said to protect against heart diseases. Grapes also contribute to strengthening the skin structure affected by environmental factors (such as sunlight, stress, and smoking). One of their most important benefits is their antioxidant properties, which help fight the most harmful free radicals in the body.
Despite being consumed for thousands of years in our country, grapes and grape products have not received their true value in food consumption. The amount of grapes and grape products in daily dietary requirements needs to be increased due to their numerous health benefits. Information regarding the nutritional content of grapes (fresh and dried) is provided below.
In 100 grams of fresh grapes:
- Calories: 73 kcal
- Protein: 0.7 g
- Fat: 0.3 g
- Carbohydrates: 16.9 g
- Water: 81.3 g
- Potassium: 183 mg
- Calcium: 15 mg
- Phosphorus: 20 mg
- Vitamin A: 5 µg
- Vitamin B: 0.08 mg
- Vitamin C: 4 mg
In 100 grams of dried grapes:
- Calories: 269 kcal
- Protein: 2.3 g
- Fat: 0.5 g
- Carbohydrates: 64 g
- Water: 24.2 g
- Sodium: 144 mg
- Potassium: 630 mg
- Calcium: 31 mg
- Phosphorus: 100 mg
- Magnesium: 65 mg
- Iron: 2.7 mg
- Vitamin A: 15 µg
- Vitamin B: 0.2 mg
- Vitamin C: 1 mg
