I was reading an article in the paper today that states, via Purdue University, that drinking 2 - 8 ounce servings of concord grape juice a day can decrease waist size over 12 weeks. Ones who drank similar sugar and calories but lacking the antioxidants in the concord mix did not fare as well. I'm wondering about the antioxidants in healthy balance grape juice which is what I use. Thank you.

The study that I believe you are referring to was presented at the 49th Annual Meeting of the American College of Nutrition. Three groups were tested: one group received 100% Concord grape juice (containing polyphenols); a second group received a polyphenol-free grape drink; the third group was the non-treatment control. Results indicated that the 100% Concord grape juice group showed a significant reduction in waist circumference and did not show significant weight gain (as opposed to the polyphenol-free group who did gain weight). Researchers hypothesize that the positive results may relate to the polyphenol antioxidant power of the juice. Antioxidants are important for our body and can help protect us against damaging free radicals.

Healthy Balance Grape juice is different from 100% Concord grape juice in that it contains a significantly lower amount of sugar and calories (only 35 calories per 8 oz.). While the Healthy Balance juice does not contain the same amount of pure grape juice as the 100% Concord grape juice, it does contains 100% of your daily requirement for vitamin C, which is an important antioxidant for our body.

Successful weight loss programs involve reduction in overall calorie intake and an increase in physical activity. I urge my patients to try not to “drink” too many calories because they add up quickly and may push you over your calorie goals for the day. Healthy Balance juices are a good choice when you are wanting to limit liquid calories but still have great tasting beverages.

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