Grapefruit, raw
Whole food · Fruits and Fruit Juices
Photo: Wikipedia
The raw grapefruit is a large citrus fruit with a thick, textured rind and a juicy, segmented interior. Its flavor is a distinctive balance of tart and sweet, often with a pleasant bitterness that can vary by variety. Nutritionally, it is exceptionally low in calories and provides a notable amount of dietary fiber per serving.
💚 Why it's loved
People love grapefruit for its vibrant, refreshing juice and the satisfying ritual of scooping out its segments. It is a versatile fruit, enjoyed simply with a sprinkle of sugar or salt, in salads, or as a classic breakfast component.
⚠️ Watch-outs & how to enjoy it better
The fruit's natural bitterness and acidity can be off-putting to some palates and may cause stomach discomfort in those with acid reflux. A key caution is its interaction with certain medications (e.g., statins, some blood pressure drugs) due to compounds that inhibit the CYP3A4 enzyme; consult a doctor or pharmacist if you take prescription drugs. To counteract bitterness, you can sprinkle a small amount of sugar or salt on the flesh, or pair it with a fatty food like avocado or nuts to balance the flavor.
Key benefits
- High in vitamin C, supporting immune function.
- Contains lycopene, an antioxidant linked to heart health.
- Good source of dietary fiber for digestive health.
- Low in calories, making it a light, hydrating snack.
- Provides potassium, which helps regulate blood pressure.
🍽️ Popular dishes
🌍 Where it's eaten
💡 Did you know?
The grapefruit is considered a 'new world' citrus fruit, believed to be a natural hybrid between the pomelo and the sweet orange that first appeared in Barbados in the 18th century.
Full nutrition (scales with serving)
| Water | 87.1 g |
| Ash | 0.31 g |
| Fiber, total dietary | 0.65 g |
| Sugars, Total | 8.0 g |
| Sucrose | 3.6 g |
| Glucose | 2.1 g |
| Fructose | 2.3 g |
| Lactose | 0.00 g |
| Maltose | 0.00 g |
| Calcium, Ca | 21.4 mg |
| Iron, Fe | 0.00 mg |
| Magnesium, Mg | 9.6 mg |
| Phosphorus, P | 20.1 mg |
| Potassium, K | 156 mg |
| Sodium, Na | 0.00 mg |
| Zinc, Zn | 0.03 mg |
| Copper, Cu | 0.03 mg |
| Manganese, Mn | 0.02 mg |
| Vitamin C, total ascorbic acid | 38.0 mg |
| Thiamin | 0.06 mg |
| Riboflavin | 0.10 mg |
| Niacin | 0.26 mg |
| Vitamin B-6 | 0.06 mg |
FAQ
Is grapefruit good for weight loss?
Grapefruit is low in calories and high in water and fiber, which can help promote feelings of fullness. However, it is not a magic weight-loss food; its benefits come as part of a balanced, calorie-controlled diet.
Can I eat grapefruit if I'm on medication?
Grapefruit can interfere with the metabolism of many common medications, including some statins, blood pressure drugs, and anti-anxiety medications. It is crucial to speak with your doctor or pharmacist before consuming grapefruit regularly if you take prescription drugs.
Why is my grapefruit so bitter?
Bitterness in grapefruit is primarily due to compounds called naringin and limonin. The level varies by variety (e.g., white grapefruit is often more bitter than pink or red). You can reduce the perception of bitterness by adding a small amount of sugar or salt, or by choosing sweeter varieties like Ruby Red.