It’s believed that this deliciously refreshing citrus was created from crossing pumello with sweet orange in the Caribbean back in the 1700s! And in case you’ve been losing sleep trying to figure out how a grapefruit is anything like a grape, we’re here for you — grapefruit likely got its name from how it grows: on trees like a cluster of large grapes. 🤯
Grapefruit might be one of those foods you see on your weekly grocery shop, but instead of picking one up, you just keep walking. Maybe it’s just not in your regular rotation, maybe you’re not sure how to eat it, or maybe you’re thinking “aren’t oranges better anyways?” We’re actually in peak grapefruit season now! Here’s why you may want to add grapefruit to your list too:
The Benefits
Like oranges, grapefruit is a good source of vitamin C, a known immunity booster. In fact, one whole grapefruit has more vitamin C than an orange! Grapefruit is also very rich in vitamin A, a key nutrient for fighting inflammation. Keep in mind that vitamin A is fat-soluble (unlike vitamin C which is water-soluble). Therefore, its absorption is greater when adding fat into the meal. In other words, if having grapefruit, integrate in some fat at that meal or snack as well, whether that’s olive oil, avocado, walnuts or whole eggs. You’ll get more of the anti-inflammatory benefits that way!
Did you know that grapefruit has a higher water content than almost any other fruit?? Grapefruit is about 90% water! Some of your daily hydration can come from fruits and veggies like this one, so it’s something to keep in mind.
Finally, grapefruits are rich in flavonoids, which have been associated with a lower risk for heart disease, so regularly consuming them may improve cholesterol and blood pressure levels.
How to Eat It, a few ideas
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Have 1/2 as a side with your eggs at breakfast
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Boost your salad with grapefruit slices for added texture and flavor
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Perfect portable snack with some sort of food with fat and protein like nuts or sliced cheese
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Cut in half and put oven on broil for 3-5 minutes (can add a tsp of brown sugar if you like). It’s the perfect sweet and satisfying treat!
-> Note that grapefruit can negatively interact with a number of medications so consult with your physician to determine what is safe for you.
