A quick snack should be defined as such. Today I am sharing my Quick and Easy Grapefruit Snack. I shared a similar post a couple of years ago and wanted to elaborate a bit more on the benefits of Grapefruit. I also wanted to include a video showing the steps I usually take to enjoy this wonderful treat.
So let’s talk first about the benefits of consuming this wonderful fruit called grapefruit. A grapefruit is full of nutrients, low in calories and contain two vital vitamins that are useful for the body, vitamins A and C. Many studies have found that it supports healthy skin and can lower the risk of many diseases. It also helps in weight loss and therefore recommended to be consumed as part of a diet regimen in the morning as breakfast.
Grapefruit Snack
As a popular food and a staple in many household, it is also recommended not to be consumed when taking certain medications. For people who suffer from acid reflux, it can increase heartburn issues. Because of its potassium content, it can be harmful to people with kidney issues as the excess in potassium can be fatal.
While it has been described as a healthy fruit, many studies have suggested that increasing consumption of grapefruit may decrease the risk of obesity, diabetes, heart disease, and increased energy. According to the American Heart Association, eating higher amounts of a compound found in citrus fruits like oranges and grapefruit may lower ischemic stroke risk for women. Also, the powerful nutrient combination of fiber, potassium, lycopene, vitamin C and choline in grapefruit help to maintain a healthy heart.
As stated in an article at medicalnewstoday.com, one study found that a diet supplemented with fresh red grapefruit positively influences blood lipid levels, especially triglycerides. Researchers concluded that the addition of fresh red grapefruit to the diet could be beneficial for people with atherosclerosis wanting to lower their high lipid levels, especially triglycerides.’
In one study, those who consumed 4069 mg of potassium per day had a 49% lower risk of death from ischemic heart disease compared with those who consumed less potassium (about 1000 mg per day). High potassium intakes are also associated with a reduced risk of stroke, protection against loss of muscle mass, preservation of bone mineral density and reduction in the formation of kidney stones. Increasing potassium intake is also important for lowering blood pressure because of its powerful vasodilation effects.
Grapefruit is an excellent source of the strong antioxidant vitamin C as well as other antioxidants. Grapefruit can help combat the formation of free radicals known to cause cancer. Many studies have proved that foods high in vitamin C and beta-carotene have shown to lower the risk of esophageal cancer.
As far as digestion, because of its high water content and its fiber content, grapefruit helps at preventing constipation and promotes regularity for a healthy digestive tract. It is also known as a great fruit to have on hand to prevent hydration. Grapefruit works as an anti-inflammatory and is therefore helpful with chest congestion, rheumatoid arthritis, lupus and other inflammatory disorders. It may also be helpful in the treatment of osteoarthritis.
Furthermore, with fruits, there are consumption pros and cons. You can certainly read more about it by checking the links located in the reference section. Lastly, grapefruit is should be stored at room temperature and away from direct sunlight. When buying grapefruits, it is recommended to choose one that is heavy in size and has a little spring when squeezed. Grapefruit is very easy to be consumed. It can be eating sliced in a fruits salad, or by itself, it is also great when juiced and is a great addition to smoothies.
Grapefruit Snack
To enjoy quick and easy grapefruit snack try adding a small amount of organic sugar, brown sugar or even coconut palm sugar to reduce the citrus sour taste it may have.
Reference
http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/280882.php
http://www.whfoods.com/genpage.php?tname=foodspice&dbid=25
Ingredients
- 1 grapefruit
- 2 teaspoons sugar organic preferably, brown sugar or coconut palm sugar
Instructions
- Wash and dry grapefruit. Place in refrigerator for about 30 minutes if preferred before slicing. Cut top of grapefruit (about 1/4 of the fruit). With a sharp knife, carefully break the inside/membrane of the grapefruit. Add sugar and enjoy.
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