Grapefruit’s Goodness: 4 Reasons To Reach For The Forbidden Fruit

The hybrid citrus – the grapefruit – is packed with more than just its sweet, sour, and juicy flavor. Turns out the forbidden fruit can impact your overall health in a variety of ways. Eat them in the morning to start your day off right or place their citrusy wedges atop your favorite salad creations. Read on to find out 4 reasons to reach for grapefruits the next time you visit the market or grocery store.

1 – Healthy For Your Heart

Just one grapefruit a day can help lower your bad cholesterol levels – mix one into your breakfast routine, and start the day off right. 

2 – Smooths Rough Skin

Grapefruit can function as an ointment for health as well. Cut one in half, sprinkle with a bit of sugar (which serves as an exfoliant) and rub over your skin. The fruit’s vitamin C and mild acid can help fade skin spots and smooth rough skin on your elbow and knees. Avoid using on your face as it could irritate sensitive complexions.

3 – Boosts Your Metabolism

This citrus can actually help you lose weight. A study from the Nutrition and Metabolic Research Center at Scripps Clinic in La Jolla, CA found that people who ate ½ grapefruit prior to each meal (without changing anything else in their diets) lost an average of 3.5 pounds over 12 weeks. Grapefruits’ compounds help burn fat and stabilize your blood sugar, naturally craving hunger.

4 – Firms Your Skin

Because of its high Vitamin C levels, grapefruits can help keep your skin smooth and firm. The high Vitamin C levels are key to producing healthy collagen. Keep your glow with a grapefruit a day.