Grapefruits are tangy citrus fruits that have several reported health benefits, including being high in a fiber known as pectin. Grapefruits are grown in tropical climates, with Florida producing 75 percent of the domestic crop, according to the website Produce Pete. Three popular varieties of Florida grapefruit are available. They are Marsh white, Ruby Red and Flame, according to the University of Florida Extension.
Features
Grapefruit pectin is found in the cell walls of the fruit. Pectin is found in both the pulp and the rind of the grapefruit. The name pectin is derived from the Greek word pectos, which means gelatinated or solidified, according to the website Herbstreith-Fox.
Significance
According to Discovery Health, grapefruits have a high pectin content, which is a soluble fiber that is important for a number of reasons. Soluble fiber dissolves in water to form a gel-like substance that is not digested by your body. Because of its stiff texture, pectin is also a key ingredient in making jellies and jams, according to the International Pectin Producers Association.
Benefits
Pectin is a fiber that is found in abundance in citrus fruits such as grapefruits, oranges and lemons. Eating even just half a grapefruit a day can provide you with 24 percent of your daily recommended allowance of fiber, according to Calorie Count. This type of soluble fiber helps to maintain the proper functioning of your digestive system and lowers cholesterol, according to MayoClinic.com.
Warning
According to physician Liliana Stadler Mitrea in her book, "Natural Medicine Mosaic," grapefruit contains the flavonone naringin, which can interfere with the metabolism of certain prescription cholesterol-lowering and cardiovascular medications. Consult your doctor before eating grapefruit if you are taking any medication.
Considerations
If you don't like the taste of grapefruit, you can buy grapefruit pectin supplements in capsule or tablet form in most drug stores to obtain pectin's health benefits. Pectin supplements are available in varying doses, ranging from 200 to 500 mg. Before taking supplements, ask your doctor about the dosage you should take.
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