The Benefits of A Grapefruit Peel

Even though grapefruit peel may never be a major part of your diet, it is edible, and when you discard the peel, you also lose valuable nutrients. The peel has a lot more fiber than the pulp does. Additionally, it has vitamin C, polyphenols, and essential oils, all of which defend against free radicals. Even the compounds found in grapefruit peel have the potential to combat cancer.

Essential Oil

The peel of a grapefruit is where the essential oils are produced and kept. Many different foods are flavor- and fragrance-added using the most prevalent oil, limonene, or D-limonene. According to the July 2013 issue of "Life Sciences," limonene demonstrates strong anti-inflammatory properties. While more studies are required to confirm its efficacy, limonene also exhibits potential in the treatment of various cancers. For instance, the findings of a study suggesting that limonene may kill cancer cells in women with early-stage breast cancer were published in the June 2013 issue of "Cancer Prevention Research."

Soluble Fiber 

The nutrients in grapefruit peel are not calculated in the same way as those in the pulp and juice of the fruit. According to Purdue University, candied grapefruit peel has 2.3 grams of fiber per 100 grams, which is roughly three times as much fiber as you'll find in the pulp. The soluble fiber pectin, which lowers cholesterol and controls the release of sugar into your system after consuming carbohydrates, is particularly abundant in grapefruit peel. 

Lineup Of Antioxidants 

Vitamin C, a well-known antioxidant, as well as the antioxidants hesperidin and naringin are all present in extracts from grapefruit peel. Hesperidin and naringin are examples of the class of plant-based compounds known as flavonoids. According to the Linus Pauling Institute, these phytochemicals may prevent the spread of cancer cells. According to a paper in the "American Journal of SurgeryMarch "'s 2011 issue, hesperidin, or hesperetin, may be able to delay the growth of tumors in the pulmonary and digestive systems.

Preparedness Advice 

The sweetness of candied grapefruit peel helps to balance the bitterness of the peel and is simple to create, but it has the drawback of adding sugar to your diet. Use grapefruit peel in savory dishes if you can. To a salad of greens, avocado, and walnuts, add shredded peel. Add a dressing of grapefruit juice, finely shredded grapefruit peel, low-fat yogurt, and olive oil on top of the dish. Use shredded grapefruit peel, fat-free mayonnaise, and a little grapefruit juice or vinegar to make a topping for fish or poultry. 

Potential Conflicts 

Some prescriptions can't be absorbed properly when grapefruit juice is consumed, leading to either too much or too little medication entering your system. According to the March 2009 edition of "Planta Medica," elements in grapefruit peel may also affect how drugs are metabolized. If you take any drugs, it is best to check with your doctor first before taking grapefruit in any form.