Grapefruit looks similar to orange and it is related to orange. The botanical meaning of grapefruit is fruit of paradise. Grapefruit is craved for its clean and tangy flavor. Besides this grapefruit has wealth of health benefits.
- It is low in calories.
- It is rich in fibers. It moves your bowel smoothly, and relieves you from constipation.
- Grape fruit is loaded with vitamin C. It acts as an antioxidant.
- It enhances immune system and prevents recurrent rhinitis and other respiratory tract infections.
- It reduces the risk of heart disease, cancer, stroke, hypertension due to the antioxidants.
- Grape fruit contains lycopene, a carotenoid phytoneutrient. Researchers have found decline in prostate cancer with increased consumption of lycopene.
- Grapefruit slows down atherosclerosis of arteries as a result of pectin fiber.
- Grapefruit contains vitamin A. it is beneficial for eyesight, skeletal and skin health.
- Potassium present in grapefruits is essential for smooth heart and muscle function.
Side Effect of Eating Grape Fruit
When you are on medications such as statins, which are used in reducing LDL cholesterol and prevent heart attack and stroke, eating grapefruit can cause side effects such as:
- Stomachache, constipation and gases more frequently.
- Rhabdomyolysis: this condition results in breakdown of muscles leading to kidney failure.
- Myopathy or muscle pain, stiffness and muscle fatigue.
- Abnormal urine color.
Side effects of grape fruit seed extract: the extract is prepared from the seeds and remains of pulp after the juice is extracted.
It inhibits the digestive enzyme in the intestine, thereby increasing the absorption of drugs.
Person taking warfarin should stay away from consuming grapefruit seed extract.