The benefits of grapefruit – 9 Top
Grapefruit has its origins in South America and it is characterized by its magic properties that only few are aware of. The only reason grapefruit isn’t a very popular fruit or our first choice, is probably its taste. Usually it leaves a bitter sense in our mouth and it can also be astringent and sour, depending on the kind. There are various sizes and colors (pink, yellow, red) based on the kind and crop. The only certain thing about it is that irrespective of the crop, the benefits of grapefruit are many, as well as its special properties for our health and body.
Grapefruit’s most famous property is the fact that it doesn’t have many calories so it is suggested for our diet if we want to lose weight. Moreover, it contains vitamin C, important for the strengthen of our immune system, as well as vitamins A and B and other important substances such as calcium, potassium, iron, magnesium, phosphorus, etc.
If you like to know in detail all the special benefits of grapefruit continue reading the article!
9 Top benefits of grapefruit
1.Helps metabolism and body weight
One of the benefits of grapefruit that makes it very popular for women is its contribution in the effort of losing weight while it has the ability to activate and increase our metabolic rate. Of course, except from eating grapefruit for the best result it is necessary to combine this with a generally balanced diet and some exercise. Its ingredients help in burning fat and stabilize sugar level in our blood. Note that grapefruits contain sodium that makes us feel full, so we consume fewer calories. Also, it contains a big amount of fat soluble fibers that make us feel satiety as well.
2.It can reduce bad cholesterol
According to studies, one of the basic benefits of grapefruit for our health is its contribution in reducing the so called bad cholesterol (LDL). It is said, that the results are even better when consuming the yellow and not the red ones. This property is related to pectin, one form of soluble fiber grapefruit contains that reduces the amount of cholesterol in our organism limiting also the possibility of atherosclerosis. We should mention that grapefruit is also full of antioxidants and except from reducing cholesterol it also reduces the triglycerides and helps in maintaining our heart healthy.
3.It helps enhance our immune system
Grapefruit is high in vitamin C as we mentioned in our introduction, fact that helps significantly in enhancing our immune system. So, a strong defense is created against infections from the attacks of bacteria, etc.
4.It is good for our skin
One of the benefits of grapefruit that has to do with our skin is the fact that due to vitamin C it contains in high amount, it can help in producing collagen, a very important protein for our skin while it helps in keeping it firm and soft. But beyond its consumption through our diet, we could use grapefruit combined with a few other natural ingredients as a recipe for whitening the brown spots on our skin. It is suggested, though, to avoid the application in face areas because irritations can be caused.
5.Ιt has anti-cancer action
We could not but mention one of the most valuable benefits of grapefruit for our health, which is its anti-cancer properties. Grapefruit’s ingredients, such as antioxidants, are related to the fight against carcinogens and make it a shield for our body. Specifically, the lycopene that pink and red grapefruits contain has a strong antioxidant action and it is said that it prevents prostate cancer. Also, according to a study, the bioflavonoids of grapefruit can fight against breast cancer. But also in the case of lung cancer, colon and skin cancer there are substances in grapefruit that can protect and prevent. So, it is very clear why we should conclude it to our diet.
6.Helps in the function of gastrointestinal system
Grapefruit is a fruit its consumption helps significantly in the right function of intestine and generally helps our gastrointestinal system. This happens due to the fibers it contains in great amount and so the constipation is prevented and our system works smoothly and correctly.
7.Removes the toxins and cleans our liver
Grapefruit consumption could be associated with the removal of the bad toxins from our body. So, it is also important for the fact that it helps in cleaning our liver.
8.It helps deal with insomnia
If you belong to the group of women who have to deal with sleeping issues, then the grapefruit can give you the solution again in this case. So, note that one of the most important benefits of grapefruit is the fight against insomnia while you can drink a glass of its juice before you go to bed and this can be very helpful.
9.It helps deal with gingivitis (inflammation of the gums)
Finally, another unknown property of grapefruit, is its contribution to the problem of gingivitis and preventing losing teeth. This happens also due the great amount of vitamin C it contains.
Notice that for a frequent consumption of grapefruit, because of its ingredients, it is suggested to consult your doctor especially if you are in medication.
