Health Benefits of Grapefruit

Credit: Wikipedia

Most people seem to have a love-hate relationship with pink or red grapefruit. The first bite is rather bitter, but there is a sweet understate that lingers long after you swallow the pulp. Discovered in Barbados in the 18th century, the grapefruit is a cross between a lemon, orange and pomelo. The color varieties indicate the color of the fruit flesh instead of the outer skin.

There are many health benefits that come from eating grapefruit. The most notable one is the fact that it contains 73.3 percent vitamin C. This is great news for the immune system, which is boosted by vitamin C. Since grapefruits are in season from winter to early spring, this is a great way to fight off colds and other illnesses that seem to be more prevalent in the winter months. Vitamin C has also been known to help rid the body of the inflammation that can lead to many other diseases like arthritis.

The pink and red varieties of grapefruit also contain the antioxident lycopene. It guards against tumors and helps fight the free radicals in the body that can damage cells. Studies have also shown the pectin found in grapefruit can lower cholesterol. Many people have increased their intake of grapefruit in order to keep down insulin levels and prevent weight gain.

No matter what the incentive, grapefruit can be a health part of a balanced diet. It is best to select grapefruit that is not overly soft at the stem or that does not look watersoaked. Overly rough or wrinkled skin should also be avoided.