The luscious flavour of citrus fruits; the pink grapefruit is both loved and disliked for its low pH, a tantalizing mix of sweet and sour. Rich in a cornucopia of wonder, here are a few of its superpowers:
- Lycopene:
- the carotenoid phytochemical antioxidant responsible for the pink/red colouring of the flesh. Many supplements for cardiovascular and prostate health utilize lycopene.
- Rutin:
- found in the pith of the fruit (the white soft matter between the skin and flesh), rutin is a bioflavonoid and works adjunctively with vitamin C. Supplements used for vascular health will often list rutin as a primary ingredient. Try not to forget about and waste the pith when juicing!
- Vitamin C:
- Possibly the most well known vitamin, vitamin C supports immunity, healthy aging and a full gamut of nutritional wellbeing.
- Fiber (soluble and insoluble), minerals… the list goes on! Additionally, the high notes of grapefruit aroma is a clean fresh scent that the body responds well to. The seeds can taste incredibly bitter and are very potent as an extract against bacteria and fungus.
However, due to the grapefruits ability to effect the cardiovascular system, this can result in the contraindications known for many medications, often permitting greater blood flow and delivery of the drug in higher amounts than usual, it can also inhibit the breakdown of the drug in the body; inversely, with some medications, it can do precisely the opposite. Depending on the individual and the medications being taken, the mixture can produce undesirable results. Pharmacies can provide a list of foods to avoid with certain medications.
Being informed plays such a major role in feeling good. Meeting with your naturopath can serve as a light in making the best decisions for your day to day health care. Call today to make an appointment.
A fresh glass of grapefruit juice
