Maintaining a balanced diet is crucial for weight loss and overall well-being. However, it’s worth noting that specific foods can have targeted benefits for different parts of the human body, supporting their optimal functioning and longevity. By incorporating these nourishing foods into our daily meals, we can give our bodies the necessary nutrients to thrive and stay in peak condition for longer periods.
According to new research, eating grapefruit every day can help keep the eyes as healthy as possible, according to what was published by the British newspaper “The Mirror”, citing the journal “Food & Function”.
While it is well known that fruits and vegetables are beneficial for overall health, this study specifically looked at the effects of grapes on eyesight in old age. The findings showed that consuming grapes daily can prevent or delay age-related macular degeneration (AMD), which is a leading cause of vision loss in older adults.
A cup and a half
The results of the new study showed that older adults who ate a cup and a half of grapes daily, or 46 grams of grape powder, over four months saw an improvement in their eye health.
The study, the first of its kind, examined the effect of grape consumption on the accumulation of macular pigment, which are compounds found in fruits and vegetables, which are known for their benefits to vision.
“Very exciting”
According to Dr. Jong-Eun Kim, the lead researcher of the study, the findings are groundbreaking. The study is the first to demonstrate the positive impact of grape consumption on eye health in humans, particularly as we age. Grapes, being easily accessible, have been shown to have a beneficial effect when consumed in moderate amounts not exceeding one and a half cups per day. These results are truly exciting and highlight the potential of grapes as a natural way to support eye health.
Harmful compounds
Eye diseases and vision problems are more prevalent in older adults, and according to researchers, one of the main drivers of these diseases is harmful compounds referred to as AGEs that can form when protein or fat combines with sugar in the bloodstream. These compounds contribute to disease by damaging the vascular components of the retina, which in turn impairs cellular function.
Antioxidants
Dietary antioxidants can prevent the formation of AGEs, which can benefit the retina by showing an improvement in macular pigment optical density (MPOD), an important measure of vision health. Grapes, as well as being a rich source of vitamin C, are full of antioxidants known as phenolic compounds, which can prevent the body from producing harmful AGEs. This makes grapes an ideal food choice to help maintain eye health.
Multiple benefits
The researchers conducted a randomized human study on 34 participants, some of whom ate a cup and a half of grapes daily for 16 weeks, and others were given a placebo. Those who consumed grapes showed a significant increase in MPOD, as well as improved plasma antioxidant capacity and total phenolic content.
