Grapes are great for the brain.

• Position: Stroke

They can happen in a matter of seconds, but can incapacitate people for the rest of their lives. Strokes are sudden, quick, and, in many cases, permanent. Researchers at the University of Missouri-Columbia School of Medicine believe that help may be as close as the local grocery store's produce section. "For years, scientists have advocated drinking a glass of red wine once or twice a day to help with cardiovascular health," points out Grace Sun, professor of biochemistry. "Our research has shown that a compound in red wine or grapes can have a similar impact on brain health, and, in some cases, may help minimize the damage to the brain when a stroke occurs."

When there is a stroke due to a blockage of blood flow to the brain, no oxygen or nutrients can enter the affected region. Soon after, neurons begin to release excitatory amino acid neurotransmitters that encourage calcium to move in. This calcium influx generates "reactive oxygen species" or "free radicals" that can be damaging. Studies with...