Grapefruits Great for Weight Loss: 4 Ways to Dig In
They’re tart, succulent and you better have a heap of sugar near by. Grapefruits, while hard to eat without slathering sugar on top, can do wonders for nutritional well being.
Who would’ve known that this heavy, Florida-grown fruit could have such an astounding effect preventing diseases and aiding in weight loss? Get ready to learn how grapefruits positively impact your health and how to eat this funky fruit to reap nutritional benefits.
Eating grapefruits has been proven to help aid weight loss. A study conducted by the Department of Nutrition and Metabolic Research at Scripps Clinic in Calif. concluded that the 91 obese participants who ate half of a fresh grapefruit before meals for 12 weeks experienced significant weight loss as a result (1). Why and How? It’s because grapefruits contain high levels of vitamin C, lycopene (a chemical compound found naturally in this fruit), and antioxidants.
Vitamin C junkies, get excited for something other than OJ. Eating one grapefruit covers about 78 percent of your daily recommended vitamin intake. “Grapefruit is an excellent source of vitamin C, a vitamin that helps to support the immune system. Vitamin C-rich foods like grapefruit may help reduce cold symptoms” (2).
The disease-fighting composition of grapefruits is miraculous. For example, grapefruit pulp may help prevent breast cancer, tumors and prostate cancer. According to a study, men who most ate lycopene-rich foods like tomatoes, apricots, pink grapefruit, watermelon, papaya, and guava were 82 percent less likely to have prostate cancer than men who consumed the least lycopene-rich fruits and vegetables (2).
Here are the four easiest ways to enjoy that good ol’ grapefruit while reaping the nutritional benefits:
1) Wedge by wedge: Cut the fruit in half. Next, cut around the diameter of the fruit separating the white membrane from the pink fruit. Slice in between each wedge. Grab a teaspoon, sprinkle sugar on top and dig in! For a twist, try brown sugar instead!
2) Like a lemon: Simply cut the grapefruit in wedges, or slice it and use it as a garnish.
We value and respect the experiences of all of our HERWriters, but everyone is different. Many of our writers are speaking from personal experience, and what's worked for them may not work for you. Their articles are not a substitute for medical advice although we hope you can gain knowledge from their insight.
Add a Comment1 Comments
Lauren,
Just wanted to let you know that you have inspired me to eat grapefruit! I'm going to pick some up next time I'm at the store and experiment with a few of the recipes you recommended.
Thanks for the tips.
March 4, 2010 - 2:31pmThis Comment