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Thursday, November 20, 2008

Grapes or Raisins?

I like grapes in every which way- fresh off the vine and shriveled up and packed into small red boxes. Each has unique benefits: Red grapes and wine contain the potent antioxidant resveratrol, which is thought to fight cancer and heart disease. While this compound isn't as prevalent in the green grapes from which raisins are made, the little dried up fruit do contain more fiber. According to a University of Maine study, the drying process converts the green grapes' fructose molecules to fructan, a type of fiber that can absorb cholesterol. Data suggests eating a half cup of raisins daily can lower LDL cholesterol levels in patients with high cholesterol. Another benefit to laying grapes out in the sun: concentrated nutrients. Because raisins have the water removed from them, they contain more minerals, amino acids, and other antioxidants per cup. However this also means they have more sugar. So include both in your diet. Put the red grapes on the table and the raisins in your desk drawer.

1 comment:

Jo said...

Brandon, I love grapes & raisins! A good recipe for chicken salad w/grapes is:

2 1/2 cups cooked boneless, skinless chicken breast
1 cup chopped celery
1 cup seedless grapes, cut in half
1/2 cup raw almonds
2 Tblsp. chopped fresh parsley
1 tsp. salt
1 cup reduced or no- fat mayonnaise
Curry powder to taste (optional)

Mix all ingredients together; may use more or less mayonnaise. Serve at room temperature on lettuce leaves, garnishing with more grapes or parsley.

Jo