The Skinny:
Film aficionados may remember the pivotal role half of grapefruit played in the 1931 classic Public Enemy when James Cagney smashed one into the face of Mae Clark, his unsuspecting girlfriend, during a breakfast squabble. That type of raw violence set a new standard for Hollywood, and the film made Cagney an iconic star. Unfortunately, the pic didn’t do much for the grapefruits themselves. They remained relegated to a dining netherworld for a decade where one could eat it at breakfast or as a dinner starter by somebody’s great aunt Gertrude or Fitzwilly, her husband. Thankfully, times have changed so has the perception of a grapefruit. Today, they have found their way into all sorts of meals, drinks and salads because of their versatility and health benefits. They also taste great. Read on for some hidden benefits.
The Slate:
Rich In Antioxidants
Grapefruit has protective nutrients and plant compounds that have antioxidant properties. It allows them to help protect cells from the potential damage caused by free radicals. For example, they’re a good source of beta-carotene, which the body converts to vitamin A. It may help chronic conditions, such as macular degeneration.
Kidney Stone Killer
Anyone interested in avoiding painful kidney stones should consider putting grapefruit in their diet. The citric acid in grapefruit can help flush calcium from a person’s system, reducing the risk of kidney stones.
Helps Prevent Diabetes
It is possible that eating grapefruit can help keep insulin levels even, protecting against type 2 diabetes. One study noted that grapefruit, blueberries, grapes, apples, and bananas significantly reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes.
Pound Shedder
Numerous studies support the notion that grapefruit in a diet helps people lose weight. There are several reasons for this. The fiber content in grapefruit makes people feel full, reducing their urge to keep eating. They are also relatively low in calories and high in water content. Admittedly, grapefruit alone won’t trim pounds, but when added to a balanced diet and exercise, it can help a lot.
May Help Prevent Cancer
Pink grapefruit contains the antioxidant lycopene, which some research suggests may help battle prostate cancer risk. The vitamin C in grapefruits may also aid in preventing cancer, but the research is not solid on that issue.
Boosts Vitality
The Asia Pacific Journal of Clinical Nutrition reports that grapefruit may increase a person’s energy by helping build ATP. It helps the body feel full and normal, which helps fight fatigue. The fruit’s high water also helps keep skin soft while reducing the burning sensation from fever and similar situations.
Cellulite Reduction
Grapefruit aromatherapy may be able to reduce cellulite because the grapefruit extract stimulates the nervous system by 250 percent. Combined with a topical cream that contains caffeine, it can have a slimming effect. Grapefruit’s high levels of anti-inflammatory and skin-cleansing agents, including the enzyme bromelain, are also known to help break down cellulite.
Eyes Up:
What’s your favorite reason for eating grapefruit? Let us know at info@wellwellusa.com.
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