Grapefruit borrows its name from grapes, which grow in clusters on its tree. Introduced to the Americans in the 17th century from Asia, grapefruit is known as the “forbidden” fruit due to its sour to semi-sweet taste. In the US, most grapefruit come from California, Texas, Florida, and Arizona. You can enjoy grapefruit between November and June.
Grapefruits are high in vitamin A and C and contain a type of fiber called pectin which can lower your cholesterol and reduce your risk for cardiovascular disease. Pink grapefruit, by far the most popular, is a little sweeter and contains a beneficial compound called lycopene. Lycopene is a powerful antioxidant that protects cells from damage. Cellular damage is thought to be the main cause for aging and chronic disease. Of course, there is no proof eating grapefruit keeps you young, but since grapefruit is healthy, low in calories and tastes good, why not indulge.
Grapefruit and its juice are not completely harmless, however. They contain compounds called furanocoumarins which block an enzyme normally responsible for certain drug effectiveness. For instance, if you take cholesterol-lowering statins such as Lipitor or Zocor, grapefruit furanocoumarins cause these drugs to increase in your body – an overdose. Too much of these statins can cause muscle and joint pain and even lead to kidney failure so always check your drug interactions. The effect of grapefruit can last 24 hours so you’d have to steer clear on this nutritious fruit if you are taking one or more of these medications.
Sorry! There is no direct proof that eating grapefruit leads to weight loss. Instead, any food that is low in calories and contains water can help you feel fuller and thus, reduce the number of calories you consume. That is reason enough to include it in your eating plan.
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