The tart taste of grapefruits may not be for everyone, however, the benefits of this super fruit are hard to beat. Grapefruits are one of the lowest-calorie fruits, while at the same time rich in nutrients, fiber, and powerful super antioxidants. Super antioxidants protect your cells from damage caused by free radicals that can damage cells and DNA and lead to aging and chronic diseases such as heart disease and cancer. Grapefruit is packed with a variety of antioxidants including:
- Vitamin C. Grapefruits are loaded with Vitamin C, a powerful antioxidant. Vitamin C may help boost your body’s immune system and protect your body cells from viruses and harmful bacteria. It also plays an important role in maintaining skin health and may protect cells from damage that may lead to heart disease and cancer
- Beta-carotene. Beta-carotene, which your body converts to Vitamin A, is thought to help reduce the risk of some chronic conditions, including heart disease, cancer, and eye-related disorders such as macular degeneration
- Known for its potential ability to prevent the development of certain types of cancer, especially prostate cancer. It may also help slow the growth of tumors and decrease the side effects of common cancer treatments
- The anti-inflammatory properties of these important compounds have been shown to reduce blood pressure and cholesterol levels, reducing the risk of heart disease. Flavonoids in grapefruit such as naringin and hesperidin also may help reduce skin damage.
It is important to note that grapefruit may interact with some medications. If you are taking any medication, always speak to your doctor first before adding grapefruit to your diet.
References:
Barreca, D., Gattuso, G., Bellocco, E., Calderaro, A., Trombetta, D., Smeriglio, A., Laganà, G., Daglia, M., Meneghini, S., & Nabavi, S. M. (2017). Flavanones: Citrus phytochemical with health-promoting properties. BioFactors, 43(4), 495–506. https://doi.org/10.1002/biof.1363
Elliott, B. (2022, March 29). 10 health benefits of Grapefruits. Healthline. Retrieved April 7, 2022, from https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/10-benefits-of-grapefruit#1.-Its-low-in-calories,-yet-high-in-nutrients
Fiedor, J., & Burda, K. (2014). Potential role of carotenoids as antioxidants in human health and disease. Nutrients, 6(2), 466–488. https://doi.org/10.3390/nu6020466
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