Grapefruit or pomelo?

Contrary to popular belief, the one commonly known in the West as grapefruit, namely the citrus with yellow skin and juicy pink flesh, is actually a pomelo. The "real" grapefruit is grown in Asia. It has thicker skin, green color with a flesh of a softer pink and many pips. In everyday language, the pomelo remains a grapefruit.

Grapefruit good for heart and weight

Studies have shown the positive effects of grapefruit on hypercholesterolemic patients. Daily consumption of two grapefruits significantly reduces blood triglyceride levels and lowers cholesterol levels. It is also an important part of dieting : the absorption of a grapefruit a day would play a role in weight loss . Its lipolytic action would be a great help for people suffering from obesity. Low in calories and high in fiber (if eaten whole and not in juice), grapefruit has about 80 calories, making it an ideal dieting partner. With 4.6 grams of fiber (if the fruit is eaten whole), it plays a role on satiety .

A cocktail of antioxidants in grapefruit

Many studies have demonstrated the antioxidant power of citrus fruit and grapefruit in particular. Indeed, they contain various agents that fight against the undesirable effects of free radicals. The latter, responsible for the development of various diseases such as cancers (specifically those affecting the digestive and respiratory systems), cardiovascular and neurodegenerative diseases.

Limonoids are antioxidants whose action on slowing the progression of cancers is proven. Consume a glass of grapefruit juice or fruit 4 days a week would bring positive effects on the evolution of these diseases. Even though the largest amount of flavonoids (another antioxidant) is found in grapefruit zest, the flesh of the fruit contains enough to be an excellent source of these protective agents of the body. Like all red and pink fruits and vegetables, grapefruit contains lycopenes (of the carotenoid family) known for their action on the development of tumors.

Grapefruit: a concentrate of energy

Grapefruit is one of the best sources of vitamin C. In addition to its antioxidant actions, vitamin C is a protective agent for bones, teeth and gums. Anti-fatigue remedy par excellence, vitamin C consumed in sufficient quantity gives a boost in the 2 hours following its absorption. Associated with vitamin A, also contained in grapefruit, it is a concentrate of vitality to consume in juice or quarters. Grapefruit is also provided with vitamin B5 which contributes (like all the vitamins of group B) to the production and the assimilation of energy brought by the food.

Drug Interactions of Grapefruit

It is brought to the attention of consumers that the active ingredients contained in grapefruit can cause a decrease or increase of the actions of a drug. Are concerned most drug classes: anxiolytics, treatments against cholesterol, cardiovascular diseases, hypertension, cancers, depression ... Indeed, it is recommended to limit the consumption of grapefruit during drug treatments in order to avoid the slightest interaction and the risk of accidents. The best advice is to approach your doctor or pharmacist to be sure to run no risk.