In honor of National Grapefruit Month, we’ve decided to highlight this beautiful, sour-yet-sweet citrus fruit in our Superfood Series.
Nutritional Highlights
- One-half of a medium-sized grapefruit provides 73% of your daily Vitamin C needs, an antioxidant important in immune function.
- Grapefruits are also a good source of Vitamin A, essential for eye and skin health.
- Not only are the rich pink and red hues of the grapefruit pretty to look at, they also contain a powerful antioxidant known as lycopene. Studies have shown that lycopene may decrease a man’s risk for developing prostate cancer.
- The soluble fiber in grapefruit may play a key role in cardiovascular health, as soluble fiber binds to cholesterol in the body, thus improving one’s lipid profile.
What About Grapefruit Juice?
When possible, always choose fruit over fruit juice to avoid added sugars. Nutritionally speaking, whole fruit will always give you more bang for your buck. Fruit is lower in calories, higher in fiber, and takes longer to break down and digest, thus leaving you fuller for a longer amount of time.
Tara’s Recipe Picks
- Toss sliced grapefruit atop a salad to add a colorful pop
- Keep the flu away this season with this Vitamin C-packed smoothie
- Pretend it’s summer again with this Sweet Heat Sunshine Salad
- Switch up your usual snack routine with this broiled grapefruit from Leanne Brown
Did You Know That…?
- Grapefruits were first discovered in Barbados in the 18th century
- They are thought to be a cross between the orange and the pomelo
- There are over 20 varieties of grapefruit produced in the U.S.
- Florida produces around 2 million tons of grapefruits per year — the most in the world!
Seasonal
Though available year round, grapefruits are typically at their peak from winter through early spring.
Organic
Grapefruits do not need to be purchased organic, though they are available. They are currently listed under the “Clean 15” group by the Environmental Working Group.
Storage
If planning to consume within a week of purchase, store them at room temperature. If planning to consume later, store in the refrigerator for 2–3 weeks.
Please Note
Food-Medication Interaction Disclaimer: If you are taking any medications, such as cholesterol-lowering statin drugs, please consult your doctor or pharmacist before consuming grapefruit (or grapefruit juice), as it may be contraindicated. For more details about this interaction, read here.
References & Helpful Links
- American Institute for Cancer Research: Foods that Fight Cancer
- Environmental Working Group
- Food and Drug Administration
- Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction
- World’s Healthiest Foods
Discover all of the ways you can use EatLove on our platform! If you aren't a member of EatLove yet, you can sign up for a FREE 2-week trial.