Red Grapefuit : Health Benefits and a Green Smoothie Recipe (Ruby Red Grapefruit, Mint, Medjool Dates, Kale)

Lately my son and I have been enjoying the sweet taste of ruby red grapefruits. This is a new fruit for my son and I just smiled from ear to ear as I watched the red juice drip down his chin. We both laughed and continued to eat as we enjoyed our time together.

Red Grapefruit

Grapefruit is a citrus fruit that has many health benefits to the body. Grapefruit first made its appearance on the scene in 1750 when it was documented by Rev. Griffith Hughes, and from then many have enjoyed the delicious and nutritious benefits of grapefruit.  Grapefruit has many micronutrients that are beneficial to one’s health.

Grapefruit contains vitamin C, vitamin A, calcium, iron, manganese, potassium, phosphorus, magnesium, folate and many B-vitamins.  Lycopene is a carotenoid found in the red/pink hues of the grapefruit.  Both red and blond grapefruits both positively influenced cholesterol levels, but red grapefruit was more than twice as effective, especially in lowering triglycerides.

Another health benefit of grapefruit is that it is a powerful antioxidant. Red grapefruit contains vitamin C, vitamin A and lycopene. These antioxidants are potent scavenger hunters that get rid of free radicals and excessive oxidation that can cause cancers.  Lycopene, especially, helps to prevent the occurrence of tumors and cancers in the body

Grapefruit juice significantly increases the production and activity of liver detoxification enzymes responsible for preparing toxic compounds for elimination from the body.

DIVA CAUTIONARY NOTE: Compounds in grapefruit are known to increase circulating levels of several prescription drugs including statins.  For this reason, the risk of muscle toxicity associated with statins may increase when grapefruit is consumed.  Please refer to your primary care therapist or physician before ingesting grapefruit or grapefruit juice.

**Information provided by http://www.whfoods.com

Ruby Red Smoothie Recipe

• 2 ruby red grapefruits

Cut a slice of peel from each end of the grapefruit. Standing the fruit upright, continue to slice the peel away from the flesh without removing too much flesh.  Be sure to remove some of the pith which tends to have a bitter taste.  Although the white pith inside the fruit may be bitter, it contains health qualities which are anti-viral and anti-inflammatory and compliment the vitamin C found in the fruit and make it even more potent.  Place a bowl under the grapefruit as you cut to catch the sweet tasting juice.

• 1 bunch mint
• 2 medjool dates
• 1 handful kale
• Water (optional)

Place in the blender in the order listed. Blend and enjoy!

Tracy

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