Grapefruit – sources, health benefits, nutrients, uses and constituents at NaturalPedia.com

06/21/2017 / By Earl Garcia

Grapefruits have been cultivated since the 18th century as a result of crossbreeding between an orange and a pomelo. The citrus fruits grow in clusters like grapes, hence their name. Grapefruits vary in color and taste. The fruit’s color may range from white or yellow to pink and red, while the taste may vary from being acidic and nearly bitter to sweet and sugary. Grapefruits are available all-year round, according to MedicalNewsToday.com. However, the more popular Florida and Texas varieties are in season only between November and June.

List of known nutrients

Like any other citrus fruits, grapefruits are valued for their high nutritional value. An article in WHFoods.com enumerated the fruit’s many essential vitamins and minerals, which include:

Beta-Carotene
Bioflavonoids
Biotin
Boron
Calcium
Chloride
Choline
Citrus bioflavonoids
Copper
Cryptoxanthin
Fiber
Flavonoids
Fluoride
Folate
Folic acid
Iron
Lutein
Lycopene
Magnesium
Manganese
Pantothenic acid
Pectin
Phosphorus
Potassium
Selenium
Sodium
Vitamin A
Vitamin B3
Vitamin B6
Vitamin B12
Vitamin C
Vitamin D
Vitamin E
Zeaxanthin
Zinc

Medicinal uses for grapefruits

Grapefruits are especially rich in flavonoids that combat infections and eliminate carcinogens from the body. The fruit is high in pectin — a compound that serves as a bulk laxative that reduces toxic exposure in the colon. Experts note that drinking six ounces of grapefruit juice daily may help stave off colon cancer. Likewise, the high vitamin A content in grapefruits may protect against lung cancer and oral cancer. Additionally, the naringenin compound in grapefruits help repair damaged prostate cells. On the other hand, the fruit’s high lycopene content staves off tumor formation.

Grapefruits are also touted to contain high levels of potassium. This means that the fruit may address reduced urination. Likewise, the high potassium content in grapefruits provides a vasodilating effect that eases blood vessel tension and promotes blood flow. This lowers blood pressure levels and reduces the risk of cardiovascular diseases. Additionally, the antioxidants found in grapefruits are known to regulate the body’s cholesterol levels. Experts have long established that eating grapefruits can reduce cholesterol level up to 15 percent and can lower triglyceride levels up to 17 percent. Aside from this, the fruit’s rich potassium supply promotes blood flow in the brain, which in turn ensures proper cognitive function.

In addition, the fruit is notably high in essential vitamins and minerals that fortify the body’s immune system. This means that grapefruits are highly effective against infectious diseases such as fever, malaria, and influenza. On another note, grapefruits are known to promote better overall digestion, and reduce the risk of digestive issues such as indigestion, constipation, and flatulence.

Furthermore, grapefruits are found to reduce starch levels and regulate blood sugar rates in patients with diabetes. Grapefruits are also known to induce weight loss. Additionally, the fruit is found to promote better eye, liver and skin health, and treat various diseases including arthritis, gum problems and kidney stones.

Body systems supported by grapefruits

Grapefruit is beneficial to the immune and digestive systems and the nervous system. Likewise, the fruit supports the eyes, the skin, the liver, and the kidneys.

Ways to use grapefruits

Being citrus fruits, grapefruits are naturally popular in making cocktails and other beverages. The fruits is also incredible as a salad addition, and may even be used in baked desserts. Delish.com made a gallery of some of the most sumptuous grapefruit recipes.