February Is for Grapefruit
By Brandi Goodman
National Grapefruit Month arrives in February for good reason. The pink citrus fruit offers some health advantages to those who add it to their regular menu. Remember that February is for grapefruit, and start adding the item to your menu now. Then be sure to continue consuming it every month after.
It's a Low-Calorie Snack
Cut up a full cup of grapefruit and you're consuming less than 100 calories total. It makes it the perfect amount for a daytime snack. Many people even start out with some grapefruit on their breakfast plates. The low-calorie option is a perfect addition anytime you're feeling a craving for something juicy.
It Packs the Vitamin C
Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant beneficial for fighting colds and warding off illness. Grapefruit provides more than 60 percent of your entire daily value -- and that's in just half of a medium-sized version. Eat more than that and you're taking in a whole lot of Vitamin C for the day.
You'll Get Protein and Fiber
Protein and fiber are two very advantageous aspects of certain foods. Your body needs them to thrive. It's no wonder, then, that grapefruit provides both. You'll get at least one gram of protein in half of a grapefruit and two grams of fiber.
It Offers Vitamin A
Vitamin A is yet another essential vitamin to your diet. Eat half a grapefruit and you'll receive nearly 30 percent of your recommended daily intake. Vitamin A works well for protecting your vision, keeping your skin healthy, and enhancing your immune system.
It's an Immune System Booster
Speaking of the immune system, grapefruit has a lot going for it in terms of boosting your body's ability to fight off illness. The Vitamin C, Vitamin A, antioxidants, Vitamin B, copper, and zinc provided by the pink fruit all work together to increase your body's immune system. People with grapefruit in their daily diet are much more likely to avoid experiencing serious symptoms of colds and the flu.
It Helps Keep You Hydrated
Hydration is key to good health. If your body isn't properly hydrated, you're more likely to experience poorly functioning systems, inflexible joints, and poor weight management. A grapefruit is roughly 88 percent water. You can get a half-cup from just half of one fruit.
Don't let February be the only month you consume this fruit. Grapefruit has far too many advantages to only utilize during one month of the year. Start adding the citrus fruit to your daily list of foods now and continue the tradition for all time.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Huntsville, Ala.