GENERAL INFO
Grapefruit (Citrus paradisi) was discovered in Barbados in the 18th century. Many botanists think the grapefruit was the result of a natural cross breeding which occurred between the orange and the pomelo, a citrus fruit that was brought from Indonesia to Barbados in the 17th century. Its current name alludes to clusters of the fruit on the tree, which often appear similar to grapes.
NUTRITIONAL INFO
Grapefruit is very low in calories (42
Kcal/100g). It is rich in dietary insoluble fiber
pectin, which promote intestinal health and reduce blood cholesterol levels. It is a good source of vitamin A (about
1150 IU per 100g) and Vitamin C (about 52% of DRI) which are important for skin
health and immune system. Grapefruit is very rich in potassium.
Potassium is an important component of cell and body fluids, helps controlling
heart rate and blood pressure.
It contains bioactive compounds such as naringenin,
beta-carotene, xanthin and
lutein. Studies suggest that these compounds have antioxidant properties and
are essential for vision. Red varieties of grapefruits are
especially rich in the most powerful flavonoid and lycopene. Studies have shown
that lycopene protects skin damage from UV rays, and offers protection against
prostate cancer. It contains moderate levels of B-complex
group of vitamins such as folate, riboflavin, pyridoxine, and thiamin in
addition to some resourceful.
NARINGENIN: THE MOST ABUNDANT BIOACTIVE IN GRAPEFRUIT
Grapefruit is one of the best sources of
the flavonoid and naringenin. It
is a primary bioactive compound in grapefruit. 100 g of grapefruit contains on average
30-40 mg of naringenin
(compared to 15 mg in oranges and 3mg in limes and cherry tomatoes). Only 15-25% of the naringenin is
absorbed in the GI.
Naringenin Health Benefits:
Strong antioxidant activities (important
for cellular health)
Reduce inflammatory processes in the body. Prevention and treatment for type 2
diabetes. May help in prevention of certain types
of cancer (ex: colon cancer, lung cancer). Helps increase good cholesterol and lower
bad cholesterol (important for cardio-vascular health. May help to slow down the spread of
Hepatitis C virus.
Naringenin
was shown to improve insulin signaling and sensitivity thus promoting the
cellular actions of insulin in adult male rats. This is research showing the
potential of naringenin on Metabolic Syndrome and Diabetes.
As
little as 200 ml (7 fluid ounces) of grapefruit juice has been found to
interact with some medications making them harmful.
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