The 100‑year-old treatment is back. Do not try it
Detox diets, promising fast results in the form of weight loss and body "cleansing" of toxins, are gaining fame from time to time. One of the slimming-culinary trends that has gained popularity on social media is the so-called grape cure. But is it really as effective and safe as it might seem?
Oct 17, 2023 | updated: 9:57 AM EDT, October 17, 2023
Where did the grape treatment come from?
Current proponents of the grape cure recommend consuming only grapes (and water) for 3 days. According to them, such a diet improves health, detoxifies, and supports weight control.
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The history of grape cure goes back almost 100 years, when a nurse named Johanna Brandt, suffering from stomach cancer, claimed that a diet based solely on grapes significantly improved her health. Despite her enthusiastic reports, most doctors were skeptical about this method. Modern science is also cautious about it.
They work better than supplements. They delay the aging process.
Benefits of Grapes
There is no denying that grapes have many health benefits. They are a source of polyphenols, which have anti-cancer properties, and resveratrol, which has anti-inflammatory effects and may protect against heart disease. Grapes are also low in calories and have a low glycemic index, making them an appealing choice for those who are watching their weight.
Protects against cancer. Supports the heart and intestines.
Is grape therapy safe?
Although grapes have many benefits, a treatment based solely on them can be risky. It's a mono diet, which can lead to a deficiency of nutrients. It is particularly dangerous for people struggling with diabetes.
Johanna Brandt claimed that grapes can help in detoxifying the body, but contemporary studies do not confirm these assumptions. In reality, excessive consumption of grapes can lead to digestive problems - for instance, diarrhea.
Safe Consumption of Grapes
Instead of a restrictive diet based solely on grapes, experts recommend including them in a balanced diet. Grapes can be a valuable addition to meals or a dessert, but they should not be the only source of nourishment.
Although a grape treatment might sound tempting as a quick way to detoxify and lose weight, it is important to remember the potential risks associated with mono diets. Instead of looking for shortcuts, it's worth focusing on a balanced diet and a healthy lifestyle.
