children and adults get more of the nutrients they need each day and have overall healthier diets. In adults, consumption of purple/blue produce was associated with a reduced risk of metabolic syndrome—which can lead to diabetes and heart disease.
Specifically, children and adults who consume purple/blue fruits and vegetables have higher intakes of fiber, vitamin C, and potassium. Lower levels of C-reactive protein (c-RP), a marker of inflammation; and significantly lower intakes of added sugars were also observed.
Also, despite having a greater intake of total energy, adults who ate purple/blue produce also had significantly lower waist circumference measurements and body mass index (BMI)—indicators of heart health risk—and lower weight and systolic blood pressure. The analysis also found that the most popular purple/blue fruits and vegetables consumed were: grapes, 100% grape juice, and raisins—accounting for almost 60% of purple/blue eating occasions.
Bottom line. Most people don’t meet the daily recommendations for fruit, and the 2015 Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommends that everyone – adults and children – get more fruit each day. Eating purple/blue foods, such as Concord grapes and Concord grape products, as part of a nutritious diet and active lifestyle may be one important ingredient for maintaining a healthy heart.
About 16 grapes (one handful) equals 1/2 cup or one serving of fruit. And remember all forms of