Grape Skin Compound Fights the Complications of Diabetes

Research has been conducted on the effects of resveratrol on diabetes patients. It has been found that resveratrol, a compund in the skin of grapes, is useful in protecting blood vessels from cellular damage. In diabetes patients, the buildup of glucose in the blood causes damage to the mitochondria in the cells of the blood vessels. The mitochondria then leak electrons and free radicals, which are very damaging. This can lead to serious complications such as heart disease, retinopathy, and nephropathy. If grapes are ingested, the resveratrol from the skins will stop the damage by assisting the cells in making enzymes. These enzymes will prevent electrons and free radicals from leaking out of the mitochondria. This could become a therapy for diabetes patients in which they would eat certain foods as a source of resveratrol. Other sources of this compound besides grape skins are seeds, peanuts, and red wine.

http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2008/03/080318094514.htm