Grapefruit and Diabetes and Other Health Benefits

Insulin is the hormone responsible in allowing glucose to enter the cell. Without the Insulin the glucose will increase in the bloodstream thus the person who is experiencing this has diabetes. The most common type of diabetes is called type 2 diabetes and it happens when the cell becomes resistant to insulin.

With increase sugar level, the liver converts it to fatty acids or lipids for long- term storage. When it happens, the fats thicken and all the more the cells will become insulin resistant and put diabetics at risk for further health problems.

Grapefruit is one of the families of citrus fruit which is the result of the combination between orange and pomelo. It looks like orange outside but have a huge size. They called this, Grapefruit because it grows in clumps like grapes and found in the subtropical area. Even if the taste is bitter- sour, this can contribute to the effectiveness in controlling diabetes.

Scientist found out that, there is a specific nutrient found in the said fruit that positively helps a diabetic patient in controlling blood sugar. The component is Naringenin, an antioxidant which gives the fruit bitter taste and has the ability to activate small proteins called nuclear receptors, causing the liver to break down fatty acids instead of storing it for a long period of time. Thus, it helps the body reduce the insulin production to control glucose level. Furthermore, naringenin mimic the action of anti-diabetic drug. So don’t eat grapefruit when maintaining medicines because it can affect the drug interaction.

Other uses of Grapefruit in our health:

• Can treat skin allergy pimples, and acne because of its antioxidant property. Reduces fine lines and wrinkles also when applied topically.
• Delay the sign of aging because of high percentage of polyamine. But more clinical trials are yet to be done to check the effectiveness.
• It has a fat burning enzyme that reduces fat and starch accumulation in the body, which sheds extra kilos.
• Consumption of its juice can boost immune system, fights infection and protects against common colds and fever. It can cure fever and good remedy for cough and sore throat.
• It can help in proper functioning of the digestive system. It has fiber that avoids constipation and provides regular bowel movements. Unlike other citrus fruits, grapefruit can ease stomach acidity because of its alkaline effect in the body.
• It can relieve fatigue and good for the person who is experiencing insomnia.

Nutritional Facts: