Grapefruit
Grapefruit comes in red (ruby), pink, and white varieties. Grapefruit contains the enzyme bromelain, which helps cleanse the skin and reduce inflammation. It is also lower in sugar and acid content than other citrus fruits. It is commonly believed that grapefruit can break down both cellulite and mucus. Cooked, pasteurized, canned, or otherwise processed grapefruit will not have the same properties because the enzymes are destroyed.
Choose grapefruit that are firm, spring back when squeezed, and heavy for their size.
| Serving size: |
1/2 fruit |
| Region: |
Israel, South Africa, Brazil, and southern United States |
Health Benefits
| Heart |
Slows the progression of arteriosclerosis. Lowers cholesterol, especially red grapefruit. |
| Kidneys |
Fresh squeezed grapefruit juice prevents the formation of calcium oxalate kidney stones. |
| Liver |
Increases the liver's ability to clean out toxins and carcinogens. |
| Skin |
Raw grapefruit contains the skin cleansing enzyme, bromelain. Try rubbing the inside of the peel against your face after eating (Eating For Beauty , by David Wolfe). |
| Weight Loss |
Drink fresh grapefruit juice or eat fresh grapefruit. Cooked, canned, or otherwise processed grapefruit will not fight cellulite. For quick results, fast on grapefruit for 3 days. |
Nutrients
| Fiber |
2 g |
8% |
A good source of the soluble fiber pectin, which slows sugar absorption. |
| Vitamin A |
1415 IU |
28% |
|
| Vitamin C |
38.4 mg |
64% |
|
