Eating grapefruit before main meals helps control weight
According to nutritionist Brittany Lubeck, MS, RDN (University of Texas, USA), grapefruit is a low-calorie fruit, rich in vitamin C and soluble fiber. When you eat half a grapefruit before meals, you will feel full early, helping to reduce the total amount of food you take in, she said.
Half a grapefruit contains only about 52 calories, but has the ability to prolong the feeling of fullness thanks to pectin, a form of soluble fiber that helps slow down the digestive process. Some studies have also shown that eating grapefruit regularly before main meals for 6 weeks can help reduce waist circumference and light weight.
However, experts recommend not to adopt an extreme grapefruit diet, only eating grapefruit instead of main meals. This method causes the body to lack energy, lose weight quickly but not sustainably and easily causes nutritional imbalance.
Eating breakfast helps digestion and cardiovascular health
Grapefruit is rich in fiber and water, which help promote bowel movements, reduce constipation and support a smooth digestive system. Eating grapefruit in the morning or before meals helps the body absorb nutrients better, while limiting the feeling of fullness.
In addition, grapefruit is rich in polyphenols, antioxidants that reduce inflammation, prevent cell damage and support the cardiovascular system. A study at Tel Aviv University ( Israel) showed that eating red grapefruit daily for 30 days helps reduce triglycerides and improve blood lipid levels in cardiovascular patients.
The fiber in grapefruit also helps reduce bad cholesterol (LDL), while supporting blood pressure control. However, people who are taking statins to treat blood fat should consult a doctor before eating grapefruit or drinking grapefruit juice, because there can be interactions that increase drug levels in the blood.
For normal people, you should eat half a grapefruit before breakfast or lunch. Do not eat on an empty stomach, as acidity can cause stomach discomfort. Combining grapefruit with a diet rich in green vegetables, whole grains and lean proteins will help optimize weight loss and improve cardiovascular health.
