Sarcopenia, a condition that causes the loss of muscle mass in older adults, could have a new ally in nature. A recent study by the Western New England University suggests that regular consumption of grapes could influence the genetic expression of muscle tissue, promoting its maintenance and functionality.
The importance of muscle health in aging
As the body ages, muscle mass tends to be reduced progressively, affecting mobility, strength and quality of life. It is estimated that between 10% and 16% of older adults suffer from sarcopenia, which increases the risk of falls, fractures and other health complications.
Until now, the most recommended strategies to mitigate this loss include regular exercise and a protein -rich diet. However, the new study provides evidence that grape intake could add additional benefits in the preservation of the muscles.
How do grapes influence muscle genetic expression?
The study, published in the scientific journal Foods, analyzed how the consumption of this fruit affects the activity of gene health genes in animal models. The results indicated that genes linked to the conservation of muscle mass increased their activity, while those associated with muscle degeneration reduced their expression.
One of the most interesting findings was that these effects were more noticeable in females, even balancing the metabolic differences that exist between the sexes. This suggests that grape intake could play a key role in reducing the gender gap in terms of muscle health in old age.
Nutrigenomics: The key behind the impact of grapes on the muscles
The study was directed by Dr. John Pezzuto, dean of the Faculty of Pharmacy and Health Sciences of the WNE, and focused on nutrigenomics, a discipline that investigates how foods influence genetic expression. In this case, researchers discovered that grapes, rich in polyphenols and flavonoids, can induce beneficial metabolic changes in muscle tissue.
During the experiment, two daily portions of grapes to mice were administered for a period equivalent to 80 years in humans. The analysis of more than 20,000 genes revealed that the consumption of grapes improved the activity of genes such as AHSG, related to the regulation of lean muscle mass, and ALB, which acts as a reservoir of amino acids essential for muscle function. In turn, it reduced the expression of genes such as Camp and LCN2, involved in muscle degeneration.
A natural ally to prevent sarcopenia
Beyond muscle benefits, grapes have been recognized for their positive impact on different health areas. According to the American Heart Association, this fruit is considered a “superfood” for its ability to improve cardiovascular health, reduce LDL cholesterol and strengthen the immune system. Now, with this new study, its role in the prevention of sarcopenia adds to the list of benefits.
Although the results in animal models are promising, researchers warn that additional studies are needed in humans to confirm these effects. However, Dr. Pezzuto stressed that grapes, due to their accessibility and security profile, could become a complementary tool to conventional strategies to preserve muscle mass.
Additional grape consumption benefits
Various research has shown that grapes can positively influence multiple aspects of health. Among the most prominent benefits are:
- Strengthening of the immune system: Its high vitamin C content helps fight infections.
- Reduction of blood pressure: Thanks to its low sodium content and potassium contribution.
- Cardiovascular protection: The resveratrol present in the grapes favors the elasticity of blood vessels and reduces inflammation.
- High cholesterol prevention: Its fiber helps reduce LDL levels, “bad” cholesterol.
- Antioxidant and anticancer properties: Its content in flavonoids and polyphenols protects against oxidative stress and cell damage.
Healthy aging requires an integral approach that combines exercise, a balanced diet and the inclusion of food with beneficial properties. In this context, the regular consumption of grapes could represent a valuable complement to maintain muscle health and prevent sarcopenia.
Waiting for new clinical studies in humans, these findings reinforce the importance of food as a key factor in the quality of life during the third age.
Source: Ambito
I am an author and journalist who has worked in the entertainment industry for over a decade. I currently work as a news editor at a major news website, and my focus is on covering the latest trends in entertainment. I also write occasional pieces for other outlets, and have authored two books about the entertainment industry.
