They are sweet, they are sour, they are divine. And grapes make fine wine. And while that glass of wine is great for your mood, the grapes themselves pack quite a healthy punch! Experts tell us grapes are loaded with nutrients, which work wonders for the skin and body. But what else? They come in different varieties and colours, make amazing salad and dessert dressing, are tasty and are mostly available year round.

Here are five reasons why you should be chomping on those grapes.

1. Rich Source of Antioxidants

Grapes are a rich source of natural chemicals called phytonutrients that shield the body from a wide range of diseases and keep the heart healthy. Resveratrol – one of the polyphenols present in grapes – is known to regulate blood pressure and cholestrol levels, reduce the risk of clots, and improve flexibility and mobility of joints.

A study done by the University of California-Davis researchers found that patients at the risk of heart disease who consumed grape seeds experienced a drop in blood pressure, thereby ensuring a healthier heart.

Grapes help reduce stress to the eyes, reveals a study done by the University of Miami, Florida.

2. Helps Tackle Inflammation

A high concentration of enzymes in grapes imparts anti-inflammatory properties. Eating grapes settles down pro-inflammatory molecules and provides a cushion to the body. What’s more, grapes are said to curb the over-production of pro-inflammatory enzymes, according to a Annals of the New York Academy of Sciences study.

3. A Healthy Glow

Resveratrol is truly the wonder component of grapes. It prevents acne and other skin problems – ensuring cleaner, healthier and younger skin. A study conducted by researchers at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) shows how “resveratrol, an antioxidant derived from grapes and found in wine, works to inhibit growth of the bacteria that causes acne.”

The study further established that:

4. Rich Source of Potassium

Look no further than grapes for that enviable figure you’ve been wanting for the longest time. Yes, you read that right.

Grapes contain 191 mg of potassium for every 100 gm of fruit. This makes it a rich source of potassium which in turn plays counter to sodium content in the body. A low sodium, high potassium diet does wonders for the body, according to a study published in Advances in Nutrition, an international review journal. It not only regulates blood pressure and optimum cholesterol levels but also helps you achieve a flat stomach. Who wouldn’t want that?

5. Wonder Fruit for Hair

Black grapes, in particular, are ideal for dealing with all sorts of hair problems right from dandruff to hair fall. This is due to the high presence of antioxidants and vitamin E in black grapes. Linoleic acid in hair gives vitality to the hair follicles shielding them from day to day damage, according to a study published in Nutrition and Metabolic Insights journal.

Grape seed oil is also beneficial in improving blood circulation to the scalp and promoting hair growth. It strengthens the tresses from the roots preventing problems related to the scalp.

Not just these, grapes are said to have many more health benefits owing to the high concentration of vitamins and minerals, iron and magnesium. The seeds and skin of grapes are the biggest source of antioxidants and hence, you should never peel them off before eating. Buy your grapes NOW!