- Iron Deficiency. Seventy-seven percent of American women under the age of
50 are iron deficient. Consuming citrus foods like grapefruit and grapefruit juice can
help boost the absorption of non-heme iron (the iron found in plants,not meat
products). What this means is that if you drink a glass of grapefruit juice before you eat
a spinach salad, your body absorbs two to four times as much iron. This is great
news for young women, female athletes, and vegetarians – all are quite susceptible to iron
deficiencies.
- Healthy Heart. Grapefruit is the first fresh produce item to
receive the American Heart Association heart check mark — designating foods low in
sodium, cholesterol, and fat.
- Dietary Fiber. One half of a grapefruit has more dietary fiber (six
grams) than many other popular fruits, including bananas, apples, and strawberries. In
recent years, low fat diets high in fruits and vegetables containing dietary fiber have
been shown to have a variety of health benefits, specifically the reduction of risk of
cardiovascular disease and cancer.
- Cholesterol. The high level of pectin fiber found in citrus fruits like
grapefruit may also help to maintain healthy cholesterol levels.
- Antioxidants. One half of one medium grapefruit gives you 110% of the current
daily value of vitamin C. Vitamin C is an important anti-oxidant, which neutralizes
free radicals that are released in the body during oxidation. Many scientists
believe that cell damage caused by free radicals may contribute to the development of
chronic diseases like heart disease and cancer.
- Losing Weight. Americans trying to lose weight should consume fruits and
vegetables with high fiber and water content — like grapefruit. Grapefruit is fat free
and contains 60 calories per serving and actually takes the edge off of your
appetite to avoid overeating.
- Potassium. A deficiency of potassium is sometimes caused by dehydration of
diuretics such as coffee or tea. To overcome this loss, physicians recommend eating more
foods that supply potassium. A serving of grapefruit provides 188 mgs. which is seven
percent of the daily value.
- Cold Season When you get a cold, it is important to give your body the
fluids and nutrients that it needs. A serving of grapefruit provides more than 100 percent
of the daily value for vitamin C, which is important to support a healthy immune system.
In fact, some research suggests that vitamin C may shorten the duration and/or lessen the
severity of colds.
- Improve Your Smile. Vitamin C is an essential nutrient for healthy skin and
gums.
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