The research showed that grape antioxidants significantly decrease the hallmarks of heart failure pathology. The study, conducted at the University of Michigan, showed that compared to the control group, the grape-enriched diet significantly decreased blood pressure and protected against cardiac remodeling where the heart becomes enlarged and the heart tissue becomes more rigid. The grape-rich diet also improved functional cardiac output per minute, and reduced oxidative stress and inflammation markers. The study results suggest that regular grape consumption accumulates to provide a beneficial impact over the long term.
Heart failure occurs when the heart is no longer able to meet the oxygen demands of the body. This can result from a loss of functional heart tissue, infection, heart valve abnormalities, or hypertension.