Although many might not like their tangy taste, grapefruit remains a citrus gem that’s as bold in flavour as it is in colour. Grapefruit may not always get the spotlight, but it delivers a unique, delightful mix of sweet, sour, and just a hint of bitterness, with a powerful nutritional punch.
Thami Mlotshwa from Johannesburg shares that he has always been a citrus lover, but grapefruits stand out above the rest for him.
“Grapefruit offers a sourness that I enjoy thoroughly, and it is the best-looking citrus fruit out there,” says Mlotshwa.
“I typically slice them up and eat them. I also make a great Paloma cocktail, and fresh grapefruit juice is the key to that.”
Thami Mlotshwa
“When we need the immune system boost for the winter, citrus fruits come right on cue. I know they’re quite vitamin C-rich. Antioxidants are also an underrated benefit of grapefruits and citrus. In general, I’m blessed with good health in the winter, and I’d like to think all the grapefruits I eat are a big contributor to that.”
Thuto Mohlala from Ekurhuleni in Gauteng says he values grapefruits as he believes that they assist in strengthening his immune system.
“I love the citrus taste of grapefruits and the fact that they’re high in vitamin C. I use them as part of a fruit bowl. I also eat them to keep hydrated, as they contain a large amount of water.”
Thuto Mohlala
“They assist in strengthening my immune system to fight off colds. The only negative about grapefruit is that you can only stomach so much. After two or three, the sweetness makes my tummy start acting funny.”
Versatile and full of nutrients
Free State dietitian Thembekile Dludlu highlights grapefruit as a versatile and nutritious citrus fruit that deserves a place in your diet.
“Grapefruits are citrus and tropical fruits that are relatively large and vary in colour from a slightly yellow to a dark pink and red. They are available for the entire year, but their peak season is usually during the winter months.
“A grapefruit contains about 50 calories filled with essential nutrients that also play a huge role in the body by providing various health benefits.”
She also mentions other health benefits of this citrus fruit, such as:
- Strengthening the immune system.
- Boosts skin health.
- Good for eye health and protects against inflammatory diseases.
- Lowers risk of chronic heart diseases such as hypertension and high cholesterol.
“It can also assist in weight loss or management. It also helps promote healthy digestion by aiding in regular bowel movements and preventing constipation by maintaining a healthy balance of gut bacteria, which is essential for overall digestive health,” she adds.
Yummy but take care of your tummy
While grapefruit offers a wide range of health benefits, Dludlu warns that there are some potential drawbacks to be mindful of.
“Grapefruit can interact with certain medications, particularly those for high blood pressure or cholesterol, affecting how they are absorbed and metabolised by the body.”
“Some people may also experience stomach discomfort or heartburn due to the fruit’s acidity, and in rare cases, grapefruit allergies can occur. Additionally, the acidity can erode tooth enamel if consumed frequently.”
Dietitian Thembekile Dludlu
She recommends consulting with a healthcare provider before regularly incorporating grapefruit into your diet if you are on medication. Dludlu also stresses the importance of consuming grapefruit in moderation and practising good oral hygiene to minimise these risks.
For those looking to experiment in the kitchen, Dludlu says grapefruit can be a refreshing and flavourful addition to a variety of dishes.
“An example of incorporating grapefruit into a diet to strengthen the immune system could be adding grapefruit slices to a salad or using grapefruit juice in a marinade for chicken. This simple addition can provide a boost of vitamin C, helping to protect against illness.”
Overall, she notes that incorporating grapefruit into your diet not only adds new flavours and textures to your meals but also provides essential vitamins and nutrients to support your immune system.
“Next time you’re looking for a healthy and delicious addition to your recipes, consider reaching for a grapefruit and getting creative in the kitchen. Your taste buds and immune system will thank you!
“And remember, moderation is key when it comes to incorporating any food into your daily routine.”
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