A well-functioning immune system is the best defense against illnesses. This holds true at all times, and in times like today, we are becoming even more aware of how crucial a reliable defense is. Viruses and other pathogens can weaken our immune system. The risk to our health is highest when temperatures are low, when we are in crowded places, and when we are exposed to a high risk of infection due to epidemics like the COVID-19 crisis.
It is therefore worthwhile to strengthen our immune system. Exercise, fresh air, and a healthy lifestyle provide a good foundation, and countless foods, such as grapefruit seed extract, help us take care of our health.
1. The bitter truth about grapefruit extract
One of these foods is grapefruit – we simply love it. What do you think of this fruit? Too bitter? Too big? Sure, bitterness is a matter of taste. But therein lies the power of grapefruit. Bitterness helps shed pounds naturally, and it also helps strengthen the immune system. Grapefruit is composed of approximately 48% juice – or in other words, very vitamin- and mineral-rich water. The fruit is low in calories but rich in vitamins A, B, and C. Grapefruit seed extract from the fruit can meet the daily requirement for vitamin C – 100 mg is easily achievable. Vitamin C is well-known for its antioxidant power and positive effects on our body. Vitamin C contributes to the function of the immune system, protects cells from oxidative stress, and supports the nervous system.
2. Grapefruit has more to offer
And it gets even better: Numerous studies have shown that grapefruit seed extract helps with weight loss. This is mainly due to the bitter substance called naringin. Naringin is a flavonoid that has been extensively studied in recent years due to its numerous positive effects on the body. Flavonoids have excellent antioxidant properties and protect cells from damage caused by free radicals. Numerous plants rich in flavonoids are also used in medicine. In grapefruit, naringin is found in the white peel, on the outer part of the fruit – so always eat some of it. Have you heard the saying: „What is bitter in the mouth is good for the stomach“? This may be because bitter substances, for example, in the stomach, stimulate the production of digestive juices. But naringin has more to offer. Even on the tongue, it acts as an appetite suppressant, lowers blood sugar levels, and boosts fat burning – the bitter taste stimulates the liver to produce fat-burning enzymes. In addition, naringin helps reduce bad cholesterol. Lastly, grapefruit is packed with antioxidants, known as scavengers of free radicals, and the fiber pectin.
3. How did the grapefruit get its name – „grape fruit“?
It’s quite simple: The impressive citrus fruits grow on trees in clusters, similar to grapes. The term „pomelo,“ which is often used as a synonym for grapefruit, is not entirely correct. This is because the grapefruit is the result of a chance crossbreeding between a pomelo and an orange – it was discovered in Barbados in the 18th century.
Grapefruits for the German market are now grown in countries such as Turkey and Spain. There, they enjoy approximately eight hours of sunlight each day.
4. The Power in the Seed: Grapefruit Extract for the Immune System and Cell Protection
Have you ever accidentally bitten into an orange or grapefruit seed? It’s quite bitter! This „bitter“ experience is not easily forgotten. But that’s exactly where the power lies: Grapefruit offers valuable flavonoids not only in the fruit itself but also in the seeds – hardly any other seed fruit contains flavonoids in such high concentrations.
5. Conclusion
To harness the positive effects of bitter substances on the immune system and the cell-protective properties in the form of a dietary supplement, an extract is obtained from grapefruit seeds. This pure grapefruit seed extract contains the concentrated power of this healthy fruit. However, if you want to support your immune system with it, make sure that the dietary supplement consists of 100% natural ingredients. In addition, the active ingredient should be available in liquid form, as this significantly increases bioavailability, allowing the flavonoid to be quickly absorbed and efficiently utilized by the body.
