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5 Ways Eating Grapefruit Can Improve Your Health

Grapefruit is one of America’s most popular breakfast foods.

While many people have trouble consuming such a tart fruit, there are numerous reasons to consume the delicious grapefruit. One reason is that you can get various health-promoting substances in this product. So, what are the health benefits of grapefruit?

HEALTH BENEFITS OF GRAPEFRUIT

1. STRENGTHENS THE IMMUNE SYSTEM

One way to boost your body’s defense against common ailments, like the flu, is to eat fruits and vegetables, especially those rich in vitamin C. As you know, vitamin C will not only increase your defense against bacteria and viruses, but it can also speed-up your recovery, especially when you have a cold or flu. Thus, consuming lemons and oranges is a common practice to boost immunity and fight harmful microorganisms. Another great option is to eat grapefruit regularly as it also has vitamin A and antioxidants like flavonoids- other healthful substances that can supercharge your immune system.

2. REDUCE RISK OF HEART DISEASES

One of the most popular health benefits of grapefruit is keeping your heart in a tiptop condition, which occurs in various ways. First, the potassium contents of this sour-tasting fruit can help lower your blood pressure. Aside from that, the fiber and antioxidants in grapefruit can also assist in reducing bad cholesterol levels.

However, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has warned the public that grapefruit may interact with various drugs. For this, you should consult your doctor before consuming this healthful product, especially if you’re taking medications for cardiovascular ailments. Nonetheless, eating this citrus fruit regularly can help lower your risk of cardiovascular diseases, such as hypertension, stroke, and coronary heart disease.

3. CAN HELP CONTROL BLOOD SUGAR

As a food with a low glycemic index, grapefruit can help manage diabetes. But, that’s not all. As presented in a study, grapefruit was able to lower insulin levels and reduce the possibility of insulin resistance. To explain further, insulin is a hormone responsible for numerous bodily functions, including your metabolism and blood sugar management. If you have insulin resistance or your body is unable to respond to insulin, you may experience diabetes or high blood sugar levels. Thus, consuming grapefruit may also prevent type-2 diabetes.
However, you should consult your doctor
before consuming this healthful product if you’re taking any anti-diabetic drug like metformin.

4. PROMOTES A YOUTHFUL COMPLEXION

Some varieties of grapefruit have high amounts of lycopene, a carotenoid responsible for the reddish or pinkish hue of the fruit. But, lycopene also possesses some therapeutic benefits. As a potent antioxidant, this carotenoid can help slow aging or prevent premature aging. Moreover, this healthful substance can also boost your skin’s natural defense against the sun. Thus, this citrus fruit has a spot in the best foods for a radiant and youthful complexion. But, that’s not all. Due to the numerous beauty benefits of grapefruit, you can see this natural astringent in various beauty products. One reason is due to the vitamin C contents of the fruit that can help boost your skin’s collagen production. Additionally, grapefruit also has salicylic acid, a compound that can get rid of excess oil, deep-cleanse your pores, and prevent acne breakouts.

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5. AIDS IN WEIGHT LOSS

Finally, consuming grapefruit can aid in your weight loss journey! Basically, this citrus fruit has compounds that can boost your metabolism and help you burn more calories. Furthermore, the water and fiber in this product can make you feel full longer and suppress your appetite. The best part is that grapefruit has a low calorie content. You will only get about 42 calories for every 100 grams of this health-friendly food.

SOME REMINDERS BEFORE EATING GRAPEFRUIT

Although there are numerous health benefits of grapefruit, consuming this sour-tasting food may cause harm. As mentioned, this citrus fruit can negatively interact with various drugs, such as alprazolam (anti-anxiety), nifedipine (antihypertensive), and simvastatin (cholesterol-lowering). For this reason, consulting your doctor is a must before adding this nutrient-dense fruit to your diet. Other than that, regular consumption of grapefruit can bring forth a youthful skin and physically fit body. This is especially true if you pick the red and pink varieties of this citrus fruit.

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