Last time I told you about the virtues of Rooibos tea. Well, something else that South Africa has a lot of is grapes. I've just read a piece of research that examined the effect of grape extracts on oxidative stress in elite athletes. The research found that oxidative stress was decreased in athletes taking an extract of grapes and performance was even increased in some. If you want to read more, follow the link: http://www.nutraingredients.com/Research/Naturex-builds-sports-case-for-Powergrape

Essentially, oxidative stress happens when we inhale oxygen (as we tend to do quite often)! About 5-10% of the oxygen will turn into free radicals, so this could be particularly relevant to cyclists doing lots of miles. The free radicals then bounce around in our body causing damage to cell membranes, blood vessels and even our genes. Oxidative stress is considered one of the main contributors to age and degenerative disease. In order to combat it (or at least try and neutralise it a bit), we need antioxidants. Commonly understood antioxidants are Vits A, C and E (ACE), Beta-carotene in orange and red veg, lycopene in tomatoes, catecins in green tea and rooibos and resveratrol in red wine (or grapes). 

Stay tune for when I discuss a DIY sports drink that incorporates grapes.