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GRAPEFRUIT
Benefits
- Rich source of vitamin C, vital for a healthy immune system.
- Contains pectin, which helps to lower blood cholesterol levels.
- Contains potassium, which helps to regulate blood pressure.
Together with other members of the citrus-fruit family, grapefruit are rich in Vitamin C, which helps our bodies fight off infection. Just half a grapefruit provides more than 50 percent of the adult daily requirement of the vitamin. Grapefruit also contain bioflavanoids, substances that scientists suspect may help to protect against certain forms of cancer.
A grapefruit’s nutritional value is not only in its juicy flesh: both the membranes between the segments and the white pith contain pectin, a soluble fibre that can help to reduce blood cholesterol levels. So to derive the maximum nutritional benefits eat the whole peeled fruit.
The potassium in grapefruit helps to maintain healthy blood pressure and a regular heartbeat. Low in calories - unless you add a lot of sugar - and virtually fat-free, grapefruit are a favourite among those on a low-fat diet. Pink grapefruit are slightly higher in vitamin C than the yellow varieties, and also contain beta carotene, which the body converts to Vitamin A (essential for growth, vision and immune function).
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