.Washington (SmartAboutHealth) - According to a new study carried out by researchers in the U.S., grapes may actually improve overall heart function by lowering blood pressure, among other things.

The study was carried out by researchers at the University of Michigan Cardiovascular Center in Ann Arbor, Michigan.

They looked at the type of impact regular table grapes had when mixed in with a diet.

They were given to lab rats who were on either a low salt or a high salt diet.

Researchers monitored the rats for a period of 18 weeks and found that those who received the grapes had lower blood pressure.

They also experienced overall improved heart function, reduced inflammation, and less signs of heart muscle damage.

This was constant for rats who ate a salty diet with grapes, or without grapes.

The study has been published in the Journal of Gerontology: Biological Science.