HEALTH BENEFITS OF GRAPEFRUIT

Grapefruit is the Power Food You Can’t Do Without!

Did you know that one grapefruit equals 25% of your daily need for fiber, and that its fruit and juice are chock full of the all-important vitamin C? Grapefruit is a healthy choice for so many reasons; some of which include low calories, abundance of fiber, and great refreshing taste. Arizona, California, Florida and Texas are big states when it comes to growing grapefruit. Grapefruits are at their peak between January and June; at least that’s when you’ll get the sweetest tasting ones, so put away the sugar or artificial sweetener, as you probably won’t need it!

When choosing grapefruit, look for skin that is bright in color and lacks bruises. The healthier a grapefruit is, the more juice it has, so hold them and go for the ones that feel heavy. Always check for soft or wet spots, and avoid those fruits. For storage, grapefruits can sit out on your counter at room temperature but last the longest when stored in a plastic bag in the refrigerator.

Be aware that some prescription drugs react adversely with grapefruit and grapefruit juice. See a list of the known drugs here.

While many of us enjoy grapefruit in the mornings by itself, or added to cereal, it is also very tasty in salads and (believe it or not) on the grill. Brush a little olive oil on each section and give it a quick sear for a delicious addition to any meal. Grapefruit sections are great as a topping for ice cream or frozen yogurt, too. There is no shortage of culinary usage for grapefruit juice, either. It’s used often in sauces, dressings and in the fruity tropical drinks we all love during hot weather. Stick those festive little cocktail umbrellas in there for maximum party atmosphere! It’s a vacation in a glass.

• Grapefruit can help you recover quickly from colds or flu
• Grapefruit can help lower LDL (bad) cholesterol
• Grapefruit can help give you beautiful skin, as vitamin C in grapefruit encourages collagen production
• Vitamin C, found in grapefruit, also helps promote healthy gum tissue
• Grapefruit is rich in lycopene, one of the most effective antioxidants out there (red or pink varieties contain the most)
• Grapefruit can help maintain a healthy weight due to feeling satisfied from high water content

For unique refreshing taste and an easy source of nutritious vitamins, remember grapefruit and its delicious juice. And remember, it’s not just for breakfast anymore to cook it up and put it in your salads or on your desserts!

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Article Written By: Laura Miller; Laura writes about beauty and health issues and loves fruit!