Grapefruit

This citrus fruit grows in sub-tropical regions. Its tree loves hot, dry, and well-drained conditions that are quite prevalent in Australia. It means that Grapefruit grows widely in Australia.

Fruits must be a part of every healthy diet and are associated with many health benefits. This is especially true for citrus fruits, which are an excellent source of vitamins, flavonoids, and different bioactive compounds. Almost all citrus fruits, including Grapefruit, are good for immune health. However, they have many other health benefits.

Citrus fruits need not be consumed in large amounts to enjoy their benefits. Most people would benefit from consuming them in small amounts regularly. So, consuming Grapefruits a few times a month would suffice to experience its health effects.

Using local fruits for health benefits is always a good idea, as they are fresh and rich in bioactive compounds. It is a delicious way to stay healthy. Following are some reasons why everyone might consider Grapefruit.

Health Benefits of Grapefruit

These fruits have many health benefits. Some of the top reasons for including Grapefruit in diet are:

Good Source of Vitamin C and Antioxidants

This citrus fruit is a good mix of vitamins, including vitamin C and A, which are potent antioxidants. However, it is also one of the great sources of carotenes, a kind of antioxidant that is similar to vitamin A but safer and has greater health benefits. It also contains lycopene and various flavonoids. It would be right to call it an antioxidant powerhouse. Thus, it is good for lowering the risk of various chronic diseases.¹
Helps Boost Immunity

Vitamin C is known to boost immunity. However, citrus fruits like Grapefruit are even better, as they contain many antioxidants, and not just vitamin C. Thus, they are an excellent source of flavonoids known to boost immunity like hesperidin, lycopene, and others. Studies show that they boost innate immunity, reducing the risk of seasonal infections. They may also promote faster recovery from viral infections. Further, Grapefruit might help reduce inflammation.²
Weight Loss Friendly

Most citrus fruits have very few calories, making them weight-loss friendly. Moreover, Grapefruit may provide vitamins to those on a diet. It can serve as a healthy snack when on a diet. Further, some of the active compounds in Grapefruit are known to promote weight loss, too.¹
Reduces Insulin Resistance & Helps with Diabetes

Grapefruits are known to be good for metabolic health. Although any such effect may be mild, it positively impacts all metabolic parameters. Thus, it helps reduce blood pressure, elevate mood, lower inflammation, and reduce insulin resistance. It is a potent antioxidant and has lipid-lowering action. These actions are both due to its content of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. For example, flavonoids in fruits like naringin and naringenin have known medicinal properties.³
Good for Heart Health

Grapefruit has bioactive compounds that are quite good for metabolic health and vascular health. Thus, it not only helps reduce weight, blood pressure, and bad cholesterol, but flavonoids in the plant help reduce atherosclerosis risk. Flavonoids in the plant are proven to reduce heart attack and stroke risk. However, those on cardiovascular drugs must know that Grapefruit may interact with certain medications. Hence, it is good for disease prevention, but those on drug therapy may only use it after consulting their healthcare provider.⁴
Excellent Source of Naringin, An Antioxidant, and Bioenhancer

Most citrus fruits contain a flavonoid called naringin. However, Grapefruit is one of the best sources of this flavonoid. Naringin is a potent antioxidant and has an anti-aging effect. It can help prevent chronic ailments.⁵Not only that, but naringin is also a bioenhancer, which means that it may increase the absorption of certain medications or health supplements, too.⁶

Side Effects of Grapefruit

All fruits, including Grapefruit, are excellent for health when consumed in moderation. However, Grapefruit is known to have some issues. When consumed in higher amounts, it is known to increase the risk of kidney stone formation. However, this risk is mild, and not all researchers agree on it.⁷

However, perhaps the most significant concern when taking Grapefruit is its interaction with a number of medications. This incredible fruit contains many bioactive compounds, some of them quite potent. Grapefruit inhibits certain liver enzymes that play a vital role in drug metabolism. So, those taking medications every day must avoid Grapefruit or its juice along with medications or consume it in small amounts. Those taking certain drugs, like those for severe heart issues or other severe ailments, might need to avoid Grapefruit or its juice.⁸

Properties

Antioxidant¹
Antiviral²
Anti-Inflammatory²
Atherosclerosis⁴
Bioenhancer⁶
Blood Pressure - Reduces⁴
Cholesterol⁴
Diabetes / Blood Sugar³
Heart Support / Health⁴
High in / Good Levels of Flavonoids²
High Vitamin C¹
Immune Booster²
Weight Loss / Management¹

References