No, it is not an orange, although it may look like one. Grapefruits are sweet, unlike oranges. But just like oranges, they are highly nutritious and rich in vitamins, minerals and antioxidants.
Dr Ushakiran Sisodia, Registered Dietician and Clinical Nutritionist at Nanavati Max Super Speciality Hospital, Mumbai, said grapefruits are ideal for consumption during the monsoon season.
“It’s rich in vitamin C, which can potentially help in boosting immunity — an important advantage during the monsoon when the incidence of infections may be higher,” she said.
As a word of caution, Sisodia added, “Always ensure to consume fresh and well-washed fruits to avoid any monsoon-related illnesses.”
Here’s a look at the health benefits of grapefruits.
Nutritional Profile of Grapefruit
Following are the contents of a 100 gram serving of grapefruits, according to Dr Sisodia.
• Calories: 42
• Protein: 0.8g
• Fat: 0.1g
• Carbohydrates: 8.4g
• Fibre: 1.1g
• Sugars: 7.4g
• It also contains vitamins C & A and minerals such as Folate and Potassium
Health Benefits of grapefruit
Grapefruit is known for its taste as well as several health benefits, according to Sisodia. Here are the benefits:
Aids in weight management: Like any fruit, it’s a great substitute for oily or fried snacks and promotes feelings of fullness, potentially aiding in weight management.
Aids digestion: The fibre content of grapefruits is known to improve digestion.
Many also claim that grapefruits are beneficial for heart health and controlling blood pressure and LDL or bad cholesterol levels. However, Dr Sisodia explained that more research is necessary to establish this link.
Can Diabetics Consume Grapefruit?
Diabetics can consume grapefruits but with caution, Sisodia said.
“The fruit has a low glycemic index, which means it doesn’t raise blood sugar levels quickly. However, for diabetics it is recommended to consult with a nutritionist or their treating diabetologist before adding any new ingredient to their diet,” said Sisodia.
Are Grapefruits Beneficial for Pregnant Women?
Grapefruits can be beneficial for pregnant women due to its rich content of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C and folate, which are essential during pregnancy, said Dr Sisodia.
Things to Keep in Mind While Having Grapefruit
Dr Sisodia warned that a small section of people, sensitive to vitamin C, can develop symptoms such as itching, hives, or respiratory issues after eating grapefruits, hence it’s advisable to consume a small amount at first to observe possible reactions.
Myths and Facts
Dr Sisodia debunked the following myths about grapefruits.
• Myth: Grapefruit can help you lose weight quickly.
Fact: While grapefruit can aid in weight management due to its fibre content, it is not a miracle weight loss fruit. Depend on a balanced diet and regular exercise are vital for healthy weight loss.
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• Myth: Grapefruit juice is a healthier alternative to the whole fruit.
Fact: Grapefruit juice might lose some of the beneficial fibres and nutrients present in the whole fruit. The juices also tend to contain higher sugar levels. Hence, it’s always better to consume the whole fruit when possible.
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First published on: 22-09-2023 at 17:30 IST
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