Natural food stores and best-selling authors point those interested in weight loss to the “superfruit,” a marketing term first used in 2005. Although superfruit is a loose term without an official scientific designation, it typically refers to exotic produce such as açaí berries, ariona, and buffaloberries. Those looking to optimize their nutrition in the produce aisle should be aware there is already an incredible fruit on the breakfast table: grapefruit.
An up-close look at the grapefruit
The average Atlantan has a general sense of nutrition and wellness: Eat your fruits and vegetables. Get exercise. Do not overdo fatty foods.
However, most of us don’t have a broad understanding of the nutrient makeup and historical background of certain foods, and the grapefruit is a perfect example. Here are four factoids about the grapefruit, per Medical News Today (MNT):
- It is actually a hybrid of an orange and a pomelo, first cross-bred in the 1700s.
- It got its name because of the way it develops within a cluster, in a similar manner to grapes.
- It is nutrient-rich and low-caloric.
- It improves the health of the skin, makes us less likely to develop chronic diseases, and could have specific benefits for weight loss.
Makeup of grapefruit & possible health benefits
The basic nutrition specs of a medium pink grapefruit, according to the USDA National Nutrient Database, are as follows:
- calories – 52
- fat – 0 g
- sodium – 0 g
- cholesterol – 0 g
- carbohydrate – 13 g (8.5 of which is sugar)
- protein – 1 g
- Vitamin C: 64% of RDA
- Vitamin A: 28% of RDA
- Calcium: 2% of RDA
- Magnesium: 2% of RDA.
Areas of possible benefit (as indicated by MNT) include weight loss, stroke, cardiovascular health, and the health of the skin:
Weight loss
The Scripps Clinic conducted a “Grapefruit Diet” study of 91 obese adults that lasted 84 days. Subjects who consumed half a fresh grapefruit three times each day, prior to meals, lost an average of 3.3 pounds.
Stroke
The American Heart Association reports that ischemic stroke is 19% lower for women who eat citrus fruits in ample quantities.
Cardiovascular health
Recent research found that regular intake of fresh red grapefruit could help those with atherosclerosis reduce their blood lipid levels, particularly triglycerides.
Skin health
Vitamin C protects the skin from the dangers of solar radiation and air pollution. It also boosts collagen production, in turn improving the skin’s elasticity and tone.
A weight loss program that incorporates nutrition
Needless to say, healthy body weight isn’t just about eating a certain fruit. It takes multidisciplinary knowledge and a strategic healthcare plan. Learn more now about how Atlanta Medical Clinic can help you lose up to 30 pounds in 30 days.