Should You Eat More Grapefruit?
By Lana Bandoim
Grapefruit sometimes gets a bad reputation because of the grapefruit diet that severely limits calories and meals. However, this fruit has multiple health benefits and is safe to eat. Although a diet that consists only of grapefruit is not a smart choice, it is a good idea to add this fruit in moderation.
Low Calories
People turn to the grapefruit diet because the fruit is low in calories. However, it is not necessary to restrict all of your meals to enjoy the benefits of grapefruit. Half of an average grapefruit has 52 calories. Consider eating it as a snack during the day or adding it to breakfast.
Vitamins and Minerals
One of the benefits of eating more grapefruit is better nutrition. Grapefruit has fiber, Vitamin C, Vitamin A, potassium, magnesium and folate. The body needs all of these vitamins, minerals and nutrients to stay healthy.
Immune System Support
Grapefruit may help the immune system because of its high level of Vitamin C. This vitamin has antioxidant properties that benefit the cells. In addition, the Vitamin A in grapefruit may support the immune system. Both of these vitamins have the ability to reduce inflammation in the body.
Diabetes Risk Reduction
Grapefruit may reduce the risk of diabetes and insulin resistance in the cells. Research shows that this fruit can help control insulin levels. One study found that grapefruit could lower blood sugar levels the same way as a common pill used to control diabetes.
Kidney Stone Risk Reduction
Kidney stones are a common and painful medical problem. However, eating more grapefruit may prevent them or reduce the risk of their development. Studies have found that the citric acid in grapefruit may stop calcium oxalate kidney stones from forming in the body. Citric acid can bind with the calcium to halt this process.
Reduce Dehydration
Many people struggle to drink enough water during the day and complain about the taste of plain water. However, drinking juice or soda has health consequences. Eating grapefruit is a safe alternative because it does not have an enormous amount of sugar, but it has a lot of water. A typical grapefruit is more than 80 percent water.
The answer is clear, and you should eat more grapefruit. It is not necessary to restrict the diet to only this fruit. You can get the health benefits by eating one grapefruit per day or enjoying the fruit several times a week.
To learn more about your health and wellness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Arnold, Mo.