Q. I have heard that Concord grape juice will lower cholesterol and alleviate joint pain. Do you know anything about that?
A. Concord grape juice contains antioxidants that improve blood vessel flexibility (American Journal of Hypertension, Jan. 2014). Other research suggests that it has beneficial effects on cholesterol (Nutrition Research, Nov. 2008).
There is a fair amount of animal research demonstrating the benefits of grape-derived compounds in experimental arthritis (International Immunopharmacology, Sept. 2013), but not much clinical research on this topic in people. One study found that people with type 2 diabetes and high blood pressure who took a grape extract for a year had measurably lower levels of inflammatory markers in their blood cells (Pharmacological Research, June 2013).
Readers have been telling us for decades that grape juice combined with Certo (plant pectin) can ease joint pain and stiffness. Animal research shows that pectin is effective in reducing cholesterol and triglyceride levels (Carbohydrate Polymers, Sept. 12, 2013). The authors actually suggest that pectin might be substituted for cholesterol-lowering drugs. The European Food Safety Authority permits foods containing pectin to put claims regarding cholesterol lowering on the packaging, although different sources of pectin have varying effectiveness (European Journal of Clinical Nutrition, May, 2012).
For more ideas on remedies that can ease joint pain or lower cholesterol and promote heart health, we suggest our Guides to Alternatives for Arthritis or Cholesterol Control and Heart Health. Share your own favorites below.
