The Health Benefits of Grapefruits

Grapefruits are an exceptional fruit that have very strong anti-viral and anti-bacterial properties. They are a great source of vitamin C and bioflavonoids which help to boost the immune system and prevent aging, illness, and disease.

Grapefruits are known to help with fevers, fatigue, indigestion, insomnia, diabetes, weight loss, influenza, malaria, urinary tract disorders, constipation, and flatulence. They are also an anti-cancer powerhouse and are particularly beneficial for prostate, breast, colon, and throat cancers. Even though grapefruit is thought to be an acidic fruit, it actually has the opposite reaction once inside the body and makes the body more alkaline which is vital for preventing most other diseases.

They also have the ability to help lower LDL (bad) cholesterol and triglycerides. Fresh grapefruit contains three special compounds; Salicylic acid, Naringin, and Galacturonic acid. Salicylic acid has proven to be very valuable in helping to remove or dissolve inorganic calcium that may have formed as deposits in the joints such as with arthritis. Naringin is a flavonoid (antioxidant) that has been shown to promote the elimination of old red blood cells from the body and to bring back hematocrit levels to normal. Galacturonic acid (found only in grapefruit) has the ability to break up and dislodge fatty plaque buildup in the arteries and remove it completely from the body.

Externally, fresh grapefruit is a natural antiseptic and can be used to help disinfect and heal wounds and abrasions. Grapefruit seeds also are a powerful natural medicine. Grapefruit seed extract is extremely effective at killing dozens of bacteria, fungi, yeast, and other harmful organisms.

Grapefruit seed extract is also known to quickly and effectively help heal sore throats, food poisoning, diarrhea, candida infections, and acne. Grapefruits are packed with electrolytes and water making them the perfect food to help replenish and hydrate the body after exercise. For the most health benefits, consume fresh grapefruits. An inexpensive citrus juicer can provide you with fresh grapefruit juice daily. If you find the sweet-tart flavor too intense, water can always be added to dilute the drink and make it a milder juice.

Another option is to use a high speed blender such as a Vitamix and blend a whole grapefruit (peel removed) on high for a minute or two. The seeds & white pith (where so many of the health properties are stored) will pulverize into the juice and provide you with an ultimate health drink, perfect for breakfast or anytime of the day.

As healthy and healing as grapefruits may be, caution should be used if you are taking certain prescription drugs. If you are on any medication, make sure to consult with your physician and/or pharmacist before consuming.