Grapefruit is one of my go-to snacks to combat the afternoon’s energy dip. Here’s why I love it:
- No plastic. It’s one of the few fruits you can buy in a supermarket which comes packaged in nothing but it’s own skin.
- It’s 92% water. Staying hydrated gives you super powers.
- High nutrient : calorie ratio. For less than 40 calories, it contains over half the daily recommended intake of Vitamin C and just under a quarter of the Vitamin A target. It’s also a good source of dietary fibre – but only if you eat the pith!
- It can stop you getting a cold. Or speed up your recovery. Vitamin A and C are huge as far as immune boosting goes.
- No blood sugar spike. In fact it can send your blood glucose levels down. Which is why it helps with…
- Weight loss. This Japanese study proved it. In particular – half of a fresh grapefruit eaten before meals was associated with significant weight loss.
- It may play a role in preventing cancer. Due to its high antioxidant level. As found in all citrus fruits – as well as in green tea (which you should drink first thing in the morning) – antioxidants reduce inflammation and stop cancel cells from multiplying.
- They last for as long as 3 weeks. If you store them in the fridge. But before eating, warm to room temperature for maximum flavour.
- They make you feel fab. OK no science here. Just personal experience.
I ought to note that the NHS advises eating grapefruit can affect some medicines by increasing the level of medicine in your blood.
Disclaimer: Although all my research is thoroughly sourced, I am not a qualified nutritionist.
