Red grapefruit is commonly associated with weight loss. However, red grapefruit has also a number of health benefits. It contains nutrients such as vitamin C and A, calcium and iron. If you're taking statins to lower cholesterol or other prescription drugs, you shouldn't eat grapefruit or drink grapefruit juice because it might affect the absorption of the drug.
Lowers Cholesterol
Eating one red grapefruit a day can significantly reduce cholesterol levels and the risk for heart disease, according to Medical News Today. You also can achieve this by drinking the juice of one whole grapefruit. While all types of grapefruit are good for lowering cholesterol, red grapefruit seems to work the best to lower triglycerides, according to a 2006 study published in the American Chemical Society's "Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry."
Provides Antioxidants
Red grapefruit is high in antioxidants, especially vitamin C. These compounds might reduce the risk of colon cancer or help heal lesions in the colon, according to a 2006 study by researchers at the Texas A&M University. Vitamin C can also help prevent scurvy and help reduce the duration of a cold, according to the Mayo Clinic.
Keeps You Regular
Red grapefruit is high in fiber, which can help fight constipation. Fiber also helps balance your blood sugar, controlling hunger and cravings. The fiber of the grapefruit is in the pulp and the white lining on the inside of the fruit. There's no fiber in grapefruit juice, according to an article in the "Nutrition Action Healthletter."
Promotes Weight Loss
Red grapefruit might help with weight loss, according to Medical News Today, although the amount lost will not be as impressive as fad diets often promise. According to a 2006 study published in the "Journal of Medicinal Food," people who ate grapefruit or drank grapefruit juice with their meals lost more weight than those who used only diet and exercise.
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