A new study on Alzheimer's disease suggests that eating grapes diet twice a day for six months could help to fight off the condition.

Researchers from the University of California found out that grapes can protect the brain from memory decline and boosts the metabolic activity necessary for improved memory and attention.

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Dr. Daniel H. Silverman said, "the study examines the impact of grapes as a whole fruit versus isolated compounds and the results suggest that regular intake of grapes may provide a protective effect against early decline associated with Alzheimer's disease."

About 10 participants (five males and five females) were asked to consume either whole grape powder or a polyphenol-free placebo powder twice a day. The placebo powder mimics the appearance and taste of grape powder but does not contain the fruit's polyphenol micronutrients. The researchers evaluated the cognitive performance of the test subjects six months after continuous consumption using PET scans.

The findings revealed that consumption of grapes helped to maintain sound metabolism in regions of the brain that are commonly affected by early symptoms of dementia. It was also discovered that Grape polyphenols have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. On the other hand, members of the placebo group exhibited metabolic decline in the brain.

Silverman and his colleagues suggest that grapes could lead to a decline of oxidative stress, promote good blood flow, and maintain ideal levels of chemicals necessary for memory enhancement and knocking-off inflammation.

The researchers aim to add their findings to the growing evidence about the benefits of the fruits in the cardiovascular and neurological well-being of humans.

Alzheimer's disease is the most common form of dementia that results in impaired mental functions and memory. Scientists believe that the disease is triggered by several factors including genetics, lifestyle, and the environment.

The study was published in Experimental Gerontology.