Grapefruit

A grapefruit contains at least three grams of fiber and is a flavorful way to up your intake of this important complex carbohydrate. Eating a fiber-rich diet is one of the best things you can do for your health according to The American Heart Association. A high-fiber diet may help support healthy cholesterol levels, reduce the risk of heart disease and colon cancer, and support healthy blood sugar levels, all while helping to support healthy weight by making you feel fuller, faster.

Grapefruit is also one of the best sources of vitamin C. Vitamin C is an essential nutrient with that helps your body absorb iron from plant-based foods and helps form collagen to help keep connective body tissue, gums, bones and blood capillaries healthy.

Citrus is also a good source of folate, a B vitamin that helps your body produce DNA for new cells and, when taken before and during early pregnancy, may help lower the risk of delivering a baby with a neural tube defect such as spina bifida. Some studies also suggest that folate may help in the fight against heart disease and certain cancers. Grapefruit is a natural astringent,it may help smooth and clean skin and tighten pores. Mix a bit of grapefruit juice with sugar or fine-grain sea salt and use the mix as a pre-shower body scrub.

Grapefruit contain compounds called flavonoids. Many flavonoids may have antioxidant or anti-inflammatory activities, which studies suggest may help in the fight against cancer. Pink grapefruit also contains lycopene, which may act as an antioxidant to help neutralize the free radicals that can damage cells and lead to diseases such as heart disease or cancer.

Grapefruit may interact with some prescription drugs, however, so consult your doctor if you eat or drink it regularly while taking prescription medications.

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