Grapefruit juice, red, not from concentrate
Category: Fruits & Fruit Juices Characteristics: Not Fortified State: Refrigerated
Nutrition Highlights
Serving Size
Calories
41
Nutrient
% Daily Value*
*Daily Values are based on the reference caloric intake of 2,000 calories for adults and children aged 4+ years. Source: Food & Drug Administration
Calorie Sources
| Nutrient | Calories kcal (%) |
|---|---|
| Carbohydrate | 36 (88.6%) |
| Fat | 2.4 (5.8%) |
| Protein | 2.3 (5.5%) |
| Total | 41 (100%) |
Serving: 100g/3.5oz [100g]
Composition
| Nutrient | Weight g (%) |
|---|---|
| Water | 90 (89.8%) |
| Carbohydrate | 9.1 (9.1%) |
| Protein | 0.6 (0.6%) |
| Fat | 0.3 (0.3%) |
| Ash | 0.2 (0.2%) |
| Total | 100 (100%) |
Serving: 100g/3.5oz [100g]
Benefits
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High in vitamin C which is an antioxidant that protects cells from free radical damage and supports immune function
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Contains flavonoids such as naringenin which may help lower cholesterol and reduce risk of heart disease
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Rich in hesperidin which may help reduce inflammation and protect against cancer
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Contains potassium which helps regulate blood pressure and reduces risk of stroke
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Low in calories which can help with weight management as part of an overall healthy diet
Risks
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High in sugar content which can increase risk of weight gain and obesity if consumed in large quantities
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Contains compounds called furanocoumarins that can interact with certain medications like statins, calcium channel blockers and immunosuppressants increasing their effects and side effects
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May cause acid reflux or heartburn in sensitive individuals due to its acidic nature
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Contains compounds called limonoids that can potentially interfere with absorption of certain nutrients like beta-carotene
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Excess consumption can lead to diarrhea, nausea or abdominal cramps in some people due to its high acid content
Additional Information
Grapefruit juice, specifically red grapefruit juice, holds several nutritional benefits that contribute to a healthy diet. However, it is essential to be aware of certain risks associated with its consumption as well.
Starting with the positive aspects, red grapefruit juice is a rich source of vitamin C, an essential nutrient that supports immune function, aids in collagen synthesis, and acts as an antioxidant, protecting cells from damage caused by free radicals. A single cup of red grapefruit juice can provide approximately 93% of the recommended daily intake of vitamin C.
Furthermore, red grapefruit juice contains a variety of beneficial phytochemicals, particularly flavonoids such as naringin and hesperidin. These compounds possess antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, potentially reducing the risk of chronic diseases like heart disease and certain types of cancer. Additionally, some studies suggest that consuming grapefruit juice may help lower blood pressure and improve overall cardiovascular health.
Red grapefruit juice is also a good source of dietary fiber, mainly in the form of soluble fiber. Soluble fiber aids in maintaining healthy cholesterol levels by reducing LDL (bad) cholesterol absorption in the intestines. Additionally, it promotes healthy digestion, helps prevent constipation, and may contribute to weight management by increasing feelings of fullness.
However, it is crucial to be cautious when consuming grapefruit juice due to potential risks. Grapefruit juice can interact with certain medications, mainly those metabolized by the enzyme cytochrome P450 3A4 (CYP3A4). This enzyme is responsible for breaking down medications in the liver, and grapefruit juice can inhibit its activity, leading to higher drug levels in the bloodstream. This interaction can result in adverse effects or reduce the effectiveness of medications, including those used for blood pressure, cholesterol, anxiety, and immunosuppression. Therefore, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional if you are taking any medications before consuming grapefruit juice.
Moreover, although red grapefruit juice is a nutritious beverage, it is important to consider portion sizes and added sugars. While it is beneficial to consume whole fruits, including grapefruit, the juice lacks the fiber content found in the whole fruit. Additionally, some commercially available grapefruit juices may contain added sugars, which can contribute to excessive calorie intake and potentially lead to weight gain or other health issues. Therefore, it is advisable to opt for freshly squeezed or refrigerated grapefruit juice without added sugars whenever possible.
In conclusion, red grapefruit juice, when consumed in moderation and without added sugars, can be a valuable addition to a balanced diet. Its high vitamin C content, beneficial phytochemicals, and dietary fiber make it a nutritious choice. However, caution should be exercised when consuming grapefruit juice alongside certain medications due to potential interactions. As with any food or beverage, it is essential to consider overall dietary patterns and individual health conditions when incorporating red grapefruit juice into one's diet.