Grapes “could help in the fight against Covid-19”.
A recent study published in the scientific journal Clinical Infectious Diseases suggested fresh table grapes could 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 against 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 about, 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.. »