A study comparing the effect of regular table grapes (in powder form) to hydrazine in salt sensitive rats was led by Michigan State University in late 2008. Over an 18 week period the rats, prone to developing hypertension, were fed a high sodium diet. It was discovered that while both groups had lowered blood pressure, the rats that received the grape powder also had better heart function, fewer signs of heart muscle damage and reduced inflammation throughout their bodies. It is hypothesized that it could be the antioxidant phytochemicals or flavonoids in the grapes causing the health benefits. A human would have to eat nine servings of about 15 grapes a day to reach the human equivalent of the rat’s diet, but it is still unknown if the observed health benefits would also occur in humans.

“Grapes may aid a bunch of heart risk factors, U-M animal study finds” published by University of Michigan Health System October 29, 2008. Can be visited online at http://www2.med.umich.edu/prmc/media/newsroom/details.cfm?ID=799.