When was the last time you ripped into a juicy grapefruit? A large, round fruit, the grapefruit is a hybrid of pummelo and sweet orange. Grapefruit is rich in heart healthy flavones and phenolic compounds. One of the phenolic compounds in grapefruit is naringin. Research studies show it to have a cholesterol reducing effect (hypercholesterolemia). Research into this grapefruit component also suggest that it can provide a protective retinal (eye) effect, which may be especially helpful for diabetic sufferers. In addition it has a mild stimulant when ingested along with coffee. This particular phenol is also problematic for those on certain medications, who should avoid eating grapefruit.
Grapefruit may have a slightly bitter taste and some people prefer to eat it sprinkled with a small amount of sugar on top. A research studies of, well, rats with their testicles removed demonstrated grapefruit pulp to have a protective antioxidant effect and a reduction of bone loss. (Nutrition, 2008, June 30). Research shows that a grapefruit a day may help those with hepatitis C.
At least one of the flavanoids compounds in grapefruit demonstrated an ability to inhibit tumor activity and provide a protective against cancer.
Caution
According to research study carried in Poland, “grapefruit contains active bioflavonoids that may change bioavailability of many medications and raise its concentrations above toxic levels.” If you are on medications you should check if grapefruit or grapefruit juice will produce any harmful reactions.