What’s better than a lower calorie food? How about one packed with nutrients like fiber, potassium, lycopene, vitamin C, choline, and magnesium? Look no further than grapefruit. The potential benefits of grapefruit can give you an upper hand on a wide variety of ailments like the common cold, constipation, influenza and so much more.
1. Appetite control: For just 52 calories, this pink fruit contains a decent amount of fiber - 2 grams for each half of a medium-sized fruit. Per research, dietary fiber promotes energy control and reduces the risk of developing obesity by inducing feelings of fullness.
2. Boosts immune system: Due to copious amounts of vitamin C grapefruit may aid in fighting the common cold. One study also suggests that vitamin C may also protect against cancers of the mouth and stomach, stroke, and heart attack.
3. Cellulite reduction: Per the International Journal of Cosmetic Science, grapefruit can be used to reduce cellulite, due to its significant levels of anti-inflammatory and skin-cleansing agents, including the enzyme bromelain, which is known to help break down cellulite. Meanwhile, when combined with a topical cream that contains caffeine has can reportedly have a slimming effect.
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4. Constipation: Tummy troubles? A full glass full of freshly squeezed grapefruit juice first thing in the morning can soothe gas and bloating. Due to its high levels of fiber, the juice stimulates the digestive system; in turn, easing the constriction of the digestive tract and induce a bowel movement.
5. Heart health: Enjoying one grapefruit each day can also aid in decreasing "bad" LDL cholesterol levels by 15.5 percent and triglycerides by 27 percent, per a study in the Journal of Agricultural and Food. In other words, it would be wise to add this heart healthy food to your breakfast arsenal.
6. Influenza: It’s no secret that vitamin C is a natural cold and flu fighter. By eating just one half of a pink grapefruit each day, you can decrease your risk of getting influenza by as much as 20 percent.
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7. Skin health: Grapefruit essence is used in popular cosmetic and skin-cleansing products for good reason. Natural acids cleanse the skin while vitamin C works as a protectant and boosts collagen levels; keeping skin looking youthful and wrinkle-free. Furthermore, grapefruit contains salicylic acid, a pimple-fighting agent found in over-the-counter acne creams
Weight loss: Consuming more of this citrus can help you shed unsightly pounds. One study of 91 obese participants found that those who consumed half a fresh grapefruit before meals lost significantly more weight than those who didn’t -- an average of 3.5 pounds (1.6 kg) over 12 weeks to be exact. While those who didn’t chow down on grapefruit, lost less than 1 pound (0.3 kg), on average (19).
Another study found that participants experienced a reduced waist size when they consumed grapefruit daily with their meals (20, 21). It’s important to note that this isn’t to say that grapefruit will induce weight loss on its own, but by adding it a healthy diet, it can certainly boost your weight loss efforts.
As a note, consult with your doctor first if you take medication. Some medications should not be taken with grapefruit juice.
