When watching your weight, citrus fruits are often said to have “fat-burning” qualities. Grapefruit is a prime example, enjoying a reputation as a slimming fruit. But is it deserved? Let’s take a look at what we really know about this fruit.
Point no. 1: it’s low in calories
The grapefruit is one of the least caloric fruits around: just 40 kcal per 100 g. It’s also very low in sugar, containing only 6 g of sugar. And that sugar comes in the form of natural fructose. Add to this a good fibre content and you have the ultimate light fruit!
Point no. 2: grapefruit and digestion
Grapefruit naturally contains water and soluble fibres. It therefore fits easily into a meal, even if you pay attention to your digestion. It’s sometimes credited with the ability to neutralise some of the dietary fats, thanks to the citric acid it contains, but there’s no evidence for this to date. Starting or finishing a meal with a grapefruit (or a pomelo, its close cousin) is still a simple, refreshing choice. If you often feel bloated, talk to your GP.
Point no. 3: it contains micronutrients
Grapefruit also stands out for its micronutrient content:
- provitamin A and vitamin C;
- flavonoids, plant compounds found naturally in citrus fruits;
- potassium, a mineral that is often mentioned in connection with water retention;
- plenty of water, which makes it a refreshing fruit.
And the word “detox” often crops up about grapefruit: we take a closer look in our article on detoxification.
Point no. 4: grapefruit and lipolysis
It’s often said that applying grapefruit essential oil to the skin has an effect on the figure, as it promotes lipolysis (the release of stored fat), although there’s no evidence for this. But what about eating grapefruit? This fruit has a good reputation, and its chemical composition (particularly its polyphenols) is the subject of research (1). However, nothing suggests it has an effect on the figure: the fruit, from its zest to its flesh and even its seeds, is no substitute for a balanced diet.
-27%Your evening cuppa, ten dried botanicals
- Peppermint contributes to digestive function, and green anise helps support digestion
- Couch grass brings its gentle sweetness, hibiscus its tangy note and meadowsweet its floral touch
- Linden, for its part, adds a soft, floral note and aids digestion
Point no. 5: its citrus scent
No, this isn’t a joke. Some research (2) has looked at the link between certain scents, including citrus scents, and appetite. These leads are still preliminary, though, and no conclusions can be drawn. To manage hunger better day to day, take a look at our tips, as well as our advice on looking after your figure naturally.
Point no. 6: grapefruit and blood sugar levels
Another idea often mentioned about grapefruit: its link with the absorption of dietary sugars and blood sugar levels. These leads still need to be confirmed, and grapefruit is in no way a substitute for medical care. If you have any questions about insulin resistance or hyperglycaemia, ask your GP.
Is eating grapefruit in the evening a good idea?
Grapefruit is light (40 kcal per 100 g), low in sugar and contains water and fibre, so it fits nicely into your evening meal: you can start or finish dinner with a grapefruit, or opt for a pomelo instead. It complements a balanced evening meal, but doesn’t replace it.
The time of day matters less than the overall balance of your diet.
Can grapefruit target your tummy?
No food can target a specific area of the body, and grapefruit is no exception. It’s a light fruit, containing water and fibre, to enjoy as part of a varied diet alongside regular physical activity.
If you often experience tummy discomfort, speak to your GP.
One precaution to be aware of
One final note about grapefruit: if you are taking medication, particularly statins (cholesterol), benzodiazepines, immunosuppressants or calcium channel blockers (heart conditions), ask your GP or pharmacist before eating it, as it may interact with some of them.
(1) 2008, Dallas et al., Lipolytic effect of a polyphenolic citrus dry extract of red orange, grapefruit, orange (SINETROL) in human body fat adipocytes. Mechanism of action by inhibition of cAMP-phosphodiesterase (PDE)
(2) 2005, Shen et al., Olfactory stimulation with scent of grapefruit oil affects autonomic nerves, lipolysis and appetite in rats
Frequently asked questions
Can grapefruit help you watch your weight?
Grapefruit is one of the lowest-calorie fruits (40 kcal per 100 g) and it’s low in sugar, so it fits easily into a balanced diet. That said, no single food is enough on its own: the overall balance of your meals and regular physical activity matter far more.
Does grapefruit make you put on weight?
Grapefruit is one of the lowest-calorie fruits, with around 40 kcal per 100 g and just 6 g of sugar. Containing water and fibre, it’s a light fruit that’s easy to enjoy every day, whether as a starter or a pudding.
What can you do with grapefruit?
The simplest option is to eat it at the start or end of a meal. You can also swap it for a pomelo, its close cousin. Grapefruit is also available as an essential oil, which is applied to the skin.
Related articles
Useful categories: Slimming Nutrition, Weight Management.
To go further, explore the Cellublue shop: our body care products.
-16%Capsules made with chromium, which contributes to normal macronutrient metabolism
- Chromium contributes to normal macronutrient metabolism, meaning the sugars, fats and proteins in your meals
- It also contributes to the maintenance of normal blood glucose levels
- Dandelion, burdock and artichoke complete the formula
