Grapefruit Glycemic Index: Health Benefits

Grapefruit, often confused with pomelos, is a refreshing and flavorful citrus fruit with a unique bitter taste. This tropical citrus fruit is packed with nutrients and health benefits. This fruit is a nutritious addition to any diet, from its high vitamin C content to its abundance of antioxidants. In recent years, grapefruit has gained popularity as a weight loss aid and has been touted for its ability to lower cholesterol levels and improve heart health.

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This article will explore how grapefruit may impact blood sugar levels and the health benefits of including this fruit in your diet. 

Grapefruit is considered a low glycemic index fruit, with a score of 26, which is lower than oranges (45), strawberries (40), and peaches (28).¹ This low glycemic index rating means consuming grapefruit should not cause dramatic rises or spikes in blood sugar levels.

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While fresh fruit is always the best option, many people consume pre-sliced grapefruit that often sits in sugary liquids. Be mindful of these products, as the added sugar will increase the glycemic index of the grapefruit. 

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Grapefruit juice is also a popular option, but similar to pre-sliced grapefruit, this beverage choice may contain filler ingredients and added sugars. Review the nutrition label to determine if other ingredients have been added before purchasing these products.

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The below glycemic index and glycemic load data is for 100g of raw, pink, and red grapefruit:¹ ²

Grapefruit is a citrus fruit that is low in calories and high in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Grapefruit contains natural plant compounds called phytochemicals, specifically flavonoids, which studies show can help fight stroke and heart disease.

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Grapefruit is an excellent source of vitamin C, providing 64% of the daily value in just half a grapefruit. It is also a good source of vitamin A, fiber, and potassium. Red and pink grapefruit are good sources of beta-carotene and lycopene, which may reduce inflammation and the risk of chronic diseases.

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The nutritional information below is for 100g of raw grapefruit.²

Grapefruit is a valuable addition to any diet and a must for those looking to lose weight. Grapefruit has several nutritional properties linked to weight loss, specifically fiber content. Fiber promotes fullness and reduces calorie intake.¹⁶ ¹⁷ Also, grapefruit contains few calories and an abundance of water, which will also help you feel fuller for longer.¹⁸

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Several studies have found weight loss effects associated with consuming grapefruit. One study found that individuals experienced a reduced waist size when consuming grapefruit daily with meals.¹⁹ However, there were no significant differences between the study participants who drank water, those who ate grapefruit, and those who drank grapefruit juice. This may show that grapefruit, on its own, may not produce weight loss, but adding it to a balanced diet is beneficial.

With one of the lowest glycemic index ratings for fruit, grapefruit is a safe choice for people living with diabetes. Eating grapefruit regularly could prevent insulin resistance, a precursor to diabetes.

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Eating grapefruit may help control insulin levels, which can reduce the likelihood of becoming insulin resistant.¹⁴ In one study, participants who ate half a raw grapefruit before meals experienced a significant reduction in insulin levels and insulin resistance compared to the control group who did not eat grapefruit.¹⁴ 

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Also, eating fruit is generally associated with improved blood sugar control and a reduced risk of type 2 diabetes.¹⁵

Grapefruit allergies are normally classified as a general fruit allergy or an allergy to citrus fruits. Symptoms of a grapefruit allergy include itchiness of the mouth, lips, or throat, swelling, and redness. In severe cases, allergic reactions can cause hives, difficulty breathing, and anaphylaxis. Please consult a healthcare professional if you suspect an allergy, sensitivity, or intolerance to grapefruit.

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Outside of an allergic reaction, grapefruit can interact negatively with certain medications, specifically ones that inhibit cytochrome P450, an enzyme in your body. Eating grapefruit while consuming these medications could cause your body not to metabolize the medication properly, which could lead to an overdose or other health complications.¹³

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Medications that typically interact with grapefruit include:¹³

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• Immunosuppressants
• Benzodiazepines
• Calcium channel blockers
• Indinavir
• Carbamazepine
• Certain statins

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If you are concerned about a grapefruit interaction, please consult your healthcare provider.