People throughout history have consumed grapes for their potential health benefits. In the beginning of the 20th century, a grape diet was thought to prevent or cure cancer and other illnesses. This belief may have stemmed from the findings of Johanna Brandt, a South American dietitian who claimed to have cured her stomach cancer by following the diet. However, no scientific evidence has proven that eating grapes, either as part of a grape diet or in conjunction with other healthy foods, can prevent or cure cancer or other illness. Despite this fact, red grapes do have several health benefits and make a nutritious snack.
Nutrition Facts
Red grapes are relatively low in calories and are fat and cholesterol free. A 1-cup serving of red grapes contains only 104 calories, yet still provides 1 g of protein and 1 g of fiber. However, this serving also contains 27 g of total carbohydrates, 23 g of which come from sugar.
Vitamins
Red grapes are a good source of several vitamins. One serving of red grapes offers 16 mg of vitamin C, which is about 27 percent of the daily value, based on a 2,000-calorie diet. It also contains 22 mcg of vitamin K and 0.4 mg of thiamin, which is about 28 percent and 27 percent of the daily value, respectfully. Red grapes also contain small amounts of vitamin E, vitamin A, vitamin K, pantothenic acid, vitamin B-6, folate, beta carotene and alpha carotene. These nutrients help your body processes function properly, and many vitamins, such as vitamin A, have antioxidant properties which may help reduce the risk for certain help problems.
