In order to lower the blood cholesterol level, it is advisable to practice physical activity, adopt a healthy diet or even quit smoking. According to an American study, regularly consuming grapes could also help fight cholesterol.
- Regular consumption of grapes, rich in polyphenols, is beneficial for the intestinal microbiome and for cholesterol metabolism.
- LDL cholesterol, also called “bad cholesterol”, fell by 5.9% thanks to regular consumption of grapes.
The grape is mainly appreciated for its sweetness and aroma. In addition to its taste assets, this fruit, rich in fibre, minerals and vitamins, contains many virtues. According to the Agency for Research and Information on Fruits and Vegetables, regular consumption of grapes would reduce the risk of developing chronic diseases, certain types of cancer and cardiovascular pathologies.
In a study published in the scientific journal Nutrients November 6, researchers from the University of California at Los Angeles (UCLA), in the United States, have revealed another benefit of grapes. They revealed that this fruit is beneficial for the intestinal microbiome and for cholesterol metabolism.
Grapes, the remedy to fight against cholesterol
To carry out this work, the scientists asked the participants to drink the equivalent of 1.5 cups of grapes a day for four weeks. They found that the polyphenols, present in this fruit, helped lower the participants’ blood cholesterol levels. According to the results, total cholesterol would have decreased by 6.1% and LDL cholesterol, also called “bad cholesterol”, reduced by 5.9%. The researchers also observed a 40.9% drop in bile acids, which are synthesized by the liver from cholesterol.
“Grape consumption significantly altered the gut microbiome and cholesterol and bile acid metabolism,” concluded the study authors.
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