Grapes “might help in the fight once morest Covid-19”.
A recent study published in the scientific journal Clinical Infectious Diseases suggested fresh table grapes might help fight Covid-19, the California Table Grape Commission (CTGC) pointed out.
The study of the scientific journal and shared by FruitNet found that a lack of adequate vitamin K – of which grapes are a natural source – was associated with poor outcomes in patients with Covid-19.
Researchers identified an increased need for vitamin K during Covid-19 illness and noted that vitamin K depletion or deficiency can have devastating consequences in the lungs.
Vitamin K, a nutrient also found in abundance in fresh grapes, plays an essential role in blood clotting, including maintaining the balance of pro- and anti-clotting factors.
Low levels of vitamin K can upset this balance, leading to a greater tendency for blood to form clots. While Covid-19 is first known as a respiratory infection, higher instances of blood clots have been observed and are worsening patient outcomes.
According to the journal, vitamin K is also implicated in inhibiting soft tissue calcification and elastic fiber breakdown. Coronary calcification is linked to a higher risk of blood clots and the breakdown of elastic fibers can impair the integrity of lung tissue.
Additionally, vitamin K is known for its anti-inflammatory activity; reduced levels have been associated with increased inflammatory proteins.
Other research suggests that certain flavonoid compounds found in grapes, green tea, cocoa and dark chocolate may be beneficial once morest Covid-19 by inhibiting an enzyme involved in the infectivity of the virus.
This research used computer modeling techniques and laboratory study to predict how certain flavonoids – specifically flavan-3-ols and proanthocyanidins – may bind to a critical enzyme that contributes to Covid-19 infectivity and inhibits its action.
« Anything that can help offset the negative impact of this devastating virus is worth knowing regarding, so findings that the natural compounds found in grapes – vitamin K and certain flavonoids – may play a beneficial role in struggle deserve to be shared“, said Kathleen Nave, president. of the California Table Grape Commission.
« These recent findings add to the substantial body of research conducted over 20 years indicating that the consumption of fresh grapes can have significant positive long-term health effects.. »
