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Friday, 6 May 2022

can grapefruit juice help you lose weight?

Grapefruit Juice for Weight Loss, Truth or Hype?



Can you lose weight by burping?

Does Farting  Burn Calories?


Nowadays, with the way that the internet works, health myths can get started that are completely false. Anybody can answer a question on an informational website. Once the answer is picked up by the search engines, it can spread throughout the internet in a way that can grant legitimacy in the eyes of the public.


This is exactly what happened with regard to the issue of whether or not passing gas can burn significant amounts of calories. On one site, it was said that one fart burns approximately 67 calories. Farting 52 times in a day can burn off one pound of fat.


As it turns out, the myth that got rolling is completely false. This is because, when you pass gas, all of the work is done by the gas itself. Even if you really strain when you pass the gas, the exertion will not burn more than a miniscule amount of calories. Your heart will not start pumping harder, and the whole process doesn’t last for more than a few seconds.


So, the painful truth is that there is no shortcut to losing weight. There is no substitute for eating in a healthy way and exercising.


Gas and Your Health

What Is Gas?


Gas is a mixture of swallowed air that comes into the digestive system and gas that is produced by bacteria in the lower intestine. The air that is swallowed can come in because of gum chewing, drinking carbonated drinks, or eating too quickly.


The bacteria in your intestines produce gases when they decompose the sugars and starches that your body does not digest. This process makes about two to six cups of gas per day. As it builds up, it must have a way of exiting the body. If you pass gas on a regular basis, it can be a sign that you’re eating enough fiber and have enough healthy bacteria in your intestines.


The type and frequency of farts can give you some clues to your health.


Stinky Farts


Around one percent of the gas manufactured by the intestines has a scent. That smell comes from hydrogen sulfide. This is a gas that is made when the body breaks down food that contains sulfur.


Many healthy foods make gas that has sulfur in it when they are digested. This gas is expelled from the body as a smelly fart. Foods that can do this to you include red meat, broccoli, cauliflower, beans, and dairy products.


Really Stinky Farts


While no fart smells terribly pleasant, if you have gas that has a really bad odor, then it may be a sign of an underlying health issue. If you need to pass gas right after you eat dairy products, this can indicate that your body is having difficulty breaking down the lactose. Most people have lactose intolerance at some level.


What is less common is that really smelly gas can indicate that you have a chronic health issue. This could be irritable bowel syndrome, celiac disease, or an infection. There are also other health issues that might pertain.


Scentless Gas


Gas that doesn’t have a scent to it is entirely healthy and normal. This gas might come from air that has been swallowed earlier. This kind of gas is similar to a burp. It merely exits the body in a different direction.


Frequent Gas


There is really no problem with frequent farting. Most people will pass gas about 20 times each day. However, the bloating that accompanies the gas may be uncomfortable or even painful.


People on a vegan diet may have more gas than those who keep to a standard diet. This is partially the case because of the carbohydrate-rich diet that vegans eat. Also, a lot of vegetables are sulfuric. Garlic and onions are particularly this way.


Frequent gas that comes along with discomfort, bloating, or a very bad smell may indicate a food allergy. If you notice that you pass gas more frequently after eating foods that have wheat in them or dairy, then you may want to have a doctor test you for a food allergy.


Myths about Gas


Holding in gas is not harmful to your body. However, it might cause you some discomfort. When you hold in your gas, it will not make it go away. You are better off going to the bathroom and letting it go.


There is also no health difference between loud farts and quiet ones. The loudness of a fart has a lot to do with the position that your body is in when you make it.


With respect to differences between the sexes, it is normal for women to pass gas just as frequently as men do. The only difference between men and women is the social stigma that goes along with passing gas.


A Surprising Truth


A compound within gas, hydrogen sulfide, can actually be good for your health. This comes to you when you smell the scent. A study was conducted where researchers determined that inhaling small amounts of the compound provides some protection from damage of cell mitochondria and cancer. The mitochondria is known as the “powerhouse” of the cell. Preventing mitochondrial damage is important for treatment of conditions such as stroke, heart failure, and diabetes. Mitochondria determine whether cells live or die and regulate inflammation.


Treating Gas


If your gas pain is caused by an underlying health issue, then treating that issue will help the problem. Besides that, you can treat your gas problem with diet, lifestyle modifications, and over-the counter medications.


The following dietary changes will help reduce the amount of gas you have and also help the gas move more quickly through your system:


– Identify problem foods.

– Reduce your consumption of fried and fatty foods.

– Temporarily cut back on high-fiber foods.

– Cut back on fiber supplements.

– Reduce your intake of dairy products.

Over-the-counter Remedies


Consider using:


– Beano

– Lactase supplements

– Simethicone

– Activated charcoal

Lifestyle and Home Remedies


– Try smaller portions of food.

– Eat slowly, chew thoroughly, and don’t gulp.

– Avoid chewing gum, sucking on hard candies, and drinking through a straw.

– Check your dentures.

– Stop smoking.

– Exercise regularly.

Burping and Your Health


Belching is the act of expelling air from the stomach through your mouth. It generally happens when the stomach expands because of too much swallowed air. You burp to reduce the distention of the stomach.


What Causes Burping?


Burping happens when your stomach gets filled with swallowed air. There are several reasons for this occurrence:


– Eating or drinking too rapidly

– Drinking drinks that are carbonated

– Anxiety

Babies and young children can swallow a lot of air without being conscious of it. Mothers burp their babies after they drink breast milk or formula to get rid of the air that they swallowed while drinking.


A person can burp even when the stomach is not full of air. This happens primarily because the burping has become a habit for reducing discomfort. The truth is that burping will only relieve the discomfort associated with swallowing air.


Aerophagia


Aerophagia is when you swallow air. This can happen when:


– You eat and talk at the same time.

– You chew gum.

– You suck on hard candy.

– You drink with a straw

– You smoke.

– You wear poorly fitted dentures.

– You have anxiety.

– You hyperventilate.

– You breathe through your nose

Foods


Some foods and drinks cause more burping. These include:


– Beans

– Broccoli

– Peas

– Onions

– Bananas

– Raisins

Medications


Some medications may lead to burping or the problems that cause burping. These include:


– A diabetes medicine called acarbose

– Laxatives

– Some pain medications

Conditions


Some medical conditions have belching as a symptom. These include:


– Gastroesophageal reflux disease

– Gastroparesis

– Gastritis

– Peptic ulcers

– Lactose intolerance

– Fructose or sorbitol malabsorption

– Helicobacter pylon

– Celiac disease

– Dumping syndrome

– Pancreatic insufficiency

Burping usually is not any cause for alarm. If it is frequent or excessive, then it may signal a problem. If your stomach has been distended for a long time and burping doesn’t relieve it, then seek medical attention. This is particularly the case if the pain is severe.


Treating Belching


Normal belching does not require any treatment. If the belching becomes excessive, then you will need to see a doctor to determine the underlying cause of the problem.


If you find that you are burping excessively, then lying on your side may help the issue. Take a knees-to-chest position.


If you find that you have a belching problem, then try to avoid:


– Eating and drinking quickly

– Drinking carbonated beverages

– Chewing gum

Medical Care


If you have excessive belching, then you need to speak to your doctor about it. The doctor will ask questions about your eating habits and your anxiety issues. Your doctor will give you an examination and may order tests such as abdominal x-rays or gastric emptying studies.


Conclusion


While passing gas and belching may be unpleasant to those around you, they usually are not the sign of any underlying problem. However, when either one of these becomes excessive, this might signal a real health problem. Farting and belching are in no way valid ways to burn calories. To even think that this would be the case seems a little bit silly.

This refreshing weight loss drink tastes absolutely delicious! Fresh squeezed pink grapefruit juice recipe made with apple cider vinegar that instantly jumpstarts digestion, supports losing weight, and burns fat!


We also highly recommend trying our cranberry detox water, detox drinks, detox citrus salad, juicing recipes, and weight loss drinks.


Grapefruit juice recipe drink in a glass for weight loss and to burn fat in the body.

WHY THIS GRAPEFRUIT APPLE CIDER VINEGAR JUICE IS SO GREAT

It has been popular by demand that an apple cider vinegar drink can help you lose weight. Well grapefruit also has the same affect. The use of the right foods at the right time for weight loss purposes has rapidly gained popularity as obesity increases. This grapefruit juice recipe is loaded with healthy gut enzymes, citrus flavor, and immunity boosting vitamin C!



Plus it tastes so satisfying and delicious by itself to rev-up the metabolism, or enjoy it as a mocktail, or cocktail by adding vodka or gin for a weekend treat (just note, with alcohol it will not be the same effect for burning fat).


WHAT GOES INTO THIS DRINK

grapefruit, maple syrup, lime, orange juice, apple cider vinegar, hand citrus juicer

Ingredients to make a grapefruit juice recipe without a juicer.

Fresh red or pink grapefruit – Grapefruit is a citrus fruit that is loaded with vitamin C and fiber. When juicing, it removes the fiber but still contains the nutrients. Use either red or pink grapefruit.

Lime – Lime citrus fruit is also loaded with vitamin C and helps to bring out and compliment the grapefruit flavor. It also works to activate digestion to start flushing things through the liver.

Apple cider vinegar – apple cider vinegar helps to balance pH levels in the body and assists with improving digestion and releasing toxins from the body. We have a great recipe on how to make apple cider vinegar easily at home.

Maple syrup or honey – I use maple syrup in my recipe for a vegan version but you can also mix in honey instead. It adds a bit of sweetness to cut the acidity of the citrus.

Orange juice – we use just 1 tablespoon or 3 teaspoons to this grapefruit juice recipe which takes this beverage to another level! It’s the secret to make grapefruit juice taste really good.

HOW TO MAKE GRAPEFRUIT JUICE

No blender or fancy juicer required, but you can make this in the juicer by juicing the citrus, then stir in the maple syrup, orange juice, and apple cider vinegar.



juicing grapefruit

Juice fresh grapefruit and a lime with a hand juicer.

To make homemade grapefruit juice from scratch, use a hand juicer for citrus fruits and squeeze the juice of about 3 grapefruits (1 cup or 8 ounces) and 1 lime. Strain the pulp out if needed. Transfer the juice to a glass and stir in the orange juice, apple cider vinegar, and maple syrup (or honey). Add ice and enjoy! Feel free to add mint and extra lime slices.



BENEFITS: NUTRITION

Grapefruit is low in calories and high in nutrients containing Vitamins C and A, fiber, potassium, folate, magnesium, and thiamine. [source] Grapefruit juice also supports the immune system, prevents insulin resistance and diabetes, is rich in antioxidants for heart health, reduces risk of kidney stones, and is extremely hydrating.


BENEFITS: BURN FAT AND WEIGHT LOSS

Does grapefruit burn fat and is grapefruit good for weight loss? Absolutely! The benefits of grapefruit juice are that it jumpstarts the metabolism to lose weight and here’s why.


Does grapefruit burn belly fat fast? can grapefruit help you lose weight?



Grapefruit is very hydrating, made up of mostly water and fiber. Foods that hydrate the body are important to push out toxins from the body that get stuck and can lead to a sluggish metabolism. The fiber helps the body to feel full for longer. So you may want to keep your grapefruit juice drink with the pulp in it to stay full longer!


One study shows that 91 obese subjects who consumed half a grapefruit before meals lost significantly more weight than those who didn’t. It truly is a fat burner miracle, although it is not determined quite why, except that insulin resistance that grapefruit promotes helps boost the metabolism. So it is important to include grapefruit in a weight reduction diet.



HOW OFTEN TO DRINK

For maximum results in detoxing and weight loss, drink this grapefruit juice recipe 20 minutes before a meal.


FAQS AND EXPERT TIPS

How do you make grapefruit juice taste better?

How to make a grapefruit drink taste better? Add natural sweetener such as orange juice, honey, or maple syrup to cut the bitter taste.


Is it ok to drink grapefruit juice everyday?

Grapefruit juice is safe to drink everyday and is not necessarily bad for you unless you are on medication. If on medication, always consult with your doctor first.


Can I drink grapefruit juice while on medication?

Grapefruit can harm the effects and absorption of certain medication and may lead to medication interactions, such as overdose. It is not recommended to drink grapefruit juice if on medication, so please talk with your doctor first before consuming this recipe to see if it is safe for you.

In an effort to help speed up fat loss, many people look for quick tips and tricks that they can easily add to their daily routine. One such tactic is to start drinking grapefruit juice. While grapefruit juice may have certain health properties, however, it's unlikely to lead to a direct increase in burning belly fat.



The Background

The idea that grapefruit may be a fat-burning super food stems from the 1930s, notes Jennifer Koslo, nutritionist at Precision Nutrition. The grapefruit diet made a reappearance in the mainstream in the 1970s with claims that you could lose 10 pounds in 10 days. According to Koslo, backers of the grapefruit diet and using grapefruits or grapefruit juice to lose weight in general claim that the fruit has powerful metabolic properties that help to ignite fat loss.


The Studies

There's some evidence linking a diet that contains grapefruit to maintaining a healthier weight. One study, published in Food and Nutrition Research in 2014, found that people who ate more grapefruit (which included drinking grapefruit juice) had lower body weights than those who didn't eat the fruit, and they also had smaller waist and higher "good" HDL cholesterol levels. The researchers also found that people who ate grapefruit tended to get more essential nutrients — including fiber, which can aid weight loss.



Metabolic Myth

According to the University of Illinois at Chicago, diets that focus on grapefruit aid weight loss not because they speed up your metabolism, but because the fruits themselves are low in calories. Therefore, replacing a calorie-dense snack with a grapefruit or glass of grapefruit juice may mean you eat fewer calories and lose more weight. Drinking grapefruit juice before a meal may also cause you to consume fewer calories at that meal because it fills you up, says a 2011 study published in "Nutrition and Metabolism."


The Real Thing

If you're looking to use grapefruit juice as a way to help control your caloric intake and fill you up before meals, pick grapefruit juice that has no added sugars or sweeteners. An even better option may be to opt for real grapefruit. Fresh fruit has a lot more fiber than juice, meaning it digests more slowly and may increase satiety even more.

One thing is undisputed about the grapefruit diet: It certainly has staying power.


The fad diet debuted in the 1930s amidst claims that its namesake fruit contains fat-burning enzymes that melt off pounds. Nearly a century later, it continues to draw attention and followers.


The eating plan (surprise, surprise) puts a big emphasis on a certain softball-sized citrus fruit. Grapefruit lands a high-profile role in every meal – breakfast, lunch and dinner.


The short-term diet’s main selling point is that it can help you lose 10 pounds during a 10- to 12-day detox. So is there any juice to that claim? Let’s squeeze out some information with dietitian Lauren Sullivan, RD.


What can you eat on the grapefruit diet?

For starters, you’ll chow on grapefruit – and lots of it.


Most versions of the diet include half a grapefruit with each meal of the day. The plans often allow you to sub in grapefruit juice if you’re feeling adventurous or don’t want to deal with a saw-toothed spoon.


After that, the primary focus of the diet is cutting waaaaay back on calories. Some plans suggest limiting yourself to as little as 800 calories in a day. That’s less than half of what is recommended for a healthy diet.


“Calories are energy for your body,” explains Sullivan. “Think of it like gasoline in your car. If you’re not fueling up properly, your engine is going to sputter.”


Other hallmarks of the classic grapefruit diet include eating foods rich in protein and high in fat and cholesterol. (Think eggs and red meat). The diet also tends to frown upon sugars and carbohydrates.


A sample meal on the grapefruit diet might include:


Half a grapefruit or 8 ounces 100% grapefruit juice without adding sugar.

Salad or a red or green vegetable cooked in butter or spices.

Meat or fish cooked in any manner.

One cup of coffee or tea without cream or sugar.

There is no one grapefruit diet, though, so guidelines tend to change plan to plan. The eating plan also carries several aliases, including the Hollywood diet.


Does grapefruit really melt fat?

Grapefruit offers many wonderful qualities, but being a miracle fat burner isn’t one of them. “It’s a healthy food,” says Sullivan. “It’s not magic, though.”


The fruit, however, does deserve consideration for your weight loss toolbox. A 2006 study showed that it “would appear reasonable” to include grapefruit in a diet designed to shed pounds. A 2011 study came to much the same conclusion.


Here’s why: Grapefruit is roughly 88% water, so eating it with meals tends to make you feel full faster. That, in turn, makes you eat less. (The nutrition pros call that concept “preloading.”)


As for the grapefruit diet’s quick weight loss claims, that’s more a byproduct of severely slashing calories. “You lose weight on the plan because you’re not eating as much,” says Sullivan. “It’s that simple.”


Grapefruit and medications

A word of caution for anyone considering the grapefruit diet: It’s definitely not a good idea if you’re on certain medications, including statins that help regulate your cholesterol.


Grapefruit contains a chemical compound that interferes with your body’s ability to process some medications. That affects the way the medicines work, leading to some serious health concerns.


The U.S. Food and Drug Administration requires warnings on some medications related to their use with grapefruit or grapefruit juice. If you’re on a medication, ask your healthcare provider if grapefruit is OK to include in your diet.


Benefits of grapefruit

Don’t let the dubious claims about the grapefruit diet shape your opinion on the tropical fruit, says Sullivan. Overall, grapefruit offers an impressive nutritional resume. Highlights include:


Serving as an excellent source of Vitamin C and Vitamin A.

Packing a high fiber content that can boost heart health.

Cancer-fighting antioxidant properties.

A low score on the glycemic index, meaning it doesn’t cause blood sugar levels to spike.

On top of that, grapefruit packs a lot of taste without a lot of calories.


“Grapefruit is worth having in your diet,” says Sullivan, “but don’t base your whole diet plan around it.”

The Grapefruit Diet is a fad diet that can be traced back to the 1930s that involves eating a half a grapefruit before every meal. It is intended as a jump-start to a weight loss plan. The claims are that grapefruit contains fat-burning enzymes that will speed up metabolism and aid in quick weight loss.



What Foods Do You Eat on the Grapefruit Diet?

A sample version of the diet involves:


Breakfast:

2 boiled eggs 

2 slices of bacon

1/2 grapefruit or 8 oz. 100 percent grapefruit juice without added sugar

Lunch:

1/2 grapefruit or 8 oz. 100 percent grapefruit juice without added sugar

Salad

Dinner:

1/2 grapefruit or 8 oz. 100 percent grapefruit juice without adding sugar

Salad or a red or green vegetable cooked in butter or spices

Meat or fish cooked in any manner

1 cup coffee or tea 

Bedtime Snack:

8 oz cup of skim milk

Most versions of the diet cut calories, some to as low as 800 calories per day.


The diet may be difficult for vegetarians and vegans due to its reliance on meat and eggs for protein.



How Much Weight Can You Lose by Eating Grapefruit?

The Grapefruit Diet Plan claims dieters can lose up to 10 pounds in 12 days without hunger and while still eating meals at normal times.


A small study funded by the Florida Department of Citrus found that dieters who are a pre-meal snack of half a grapefruit, or drank a half-cup of 100 percent grapefruit juice or water before three main meals on a reduced calorie diet lost weight, lowered body mass index (BMI), and reduced waist circumference.


The study lasted 14 weeks and participants lost an average of 7.1% of their initial body weight, which averaged about 15 pounds per person. It should be noted that the group that drank water also saw these same reductions in weight, BMI, and waist circumference. 


The study did find some additional benefits in the grapefruit and 100 percent grapefruit juice groups, such as: 


Increased HDL (“good”) cholesterol

Decreased appetite

Increased vitamin C intake 

Increased fiber intake (for those who ate half a grapefruit)


What Are Risks of The Grapefruit Diet?

Any diet that reduces calories dramatically is not healthy. Any weight loss that occurs is likely due to fluid loss and will be regained as soon as the dieter resumes normal eating. 


Grapefruit and grapefruit juice also interact with numerous medications, including:


Statins

Calcium-channel blockers

Other cardiovascular drugs

Immunosuppressants

Sedatives

Some neurological and psychiatric medications

Phosphodiesterase inhibitors

While grapefruit is healthy, low in calories, and full of fiber and vitamin C, there is nothing to indicate it has special fat-burning capability or is any better for weight loss than other fruits and vegetables. 

The infamous grapefruit diet promises weight loss if you incorporate the fruit into every meal, which is why grapefruit and its juice are often touted for their ability to help you shed pounds. But is there really a connection between grapefruit juice and weight loss?


VIDEO OF THE DAY


First off, using grapefruit juice as your chief tool for weight loss can be dangerous and unsustainable, according to the Cleveland Clinic. Still, there are certain grapefruit juice benefits that make it a good addition to a balanced diet.


So, does grapefruit juice help you lose weight? We break it down here.


Warning

Avoid drinking grapefruit juice (or eating grapefruit) if you take medications for cholesterol or blood pressure or take corticosteroids, anti-anxiety meds or antihistamines, as they can interact and cause health issues, according to the FDA.


Is Grapefruit Juice Good for Weight Loss?

Some fad diets claim that the enzymes in grapefruit (and grapefruit juice) burn fat, according to the Cleveland Clinic. There isn't evidence to back this up, and what little research is out there is scant and conflicting. Still, it's possible that grapefruit juice may help with weight loss indirectly.


For instance, a February 2011 study in ​​​Nutrition & Metabolism​​ had 86 adults with obesity eat either fresh grapefruit, grapefruit juice or water before each meal for three months after completing a two-week caloric restriction phase. All three groups lost weight, indicating that eating fruit, hydrating or drinking grapefruit juice before meals may be linked to reduced caloric intake.


That said, because all three groups lost weight, the researchers concluded that grapefruit or its juice isn't more effective than water.


Another October 2014 study in ​PLOS One​ found that mice on a high-fat diet gained less weight when they drank grapefruit juice compared to water. However, this research only studied what grapefruit juice does for weight loss in mice, so more studies are needed to show this same link in humans.


Other evidence is conflicting. An older March 2006 study in the ​​​Journal of Medicinal Food​​ gave 96 people with obesity either a placebo, a grapefruit capsule, apple juice, grapefruit juice or half a grapefruit before each meal for three months. The study found that the group who ate fresh grapefruit lost more weight than the other groups.


But this research is older, so new and larger studies are needed to better determine the link (if any) between grapefruit juice and fat loss.


Tip

If losing weight is your goal, talk to your doctor about the best diet and exercise plan for you rather than relying on one ingredient to find results, according to the Mayo Clinic.


Benefits of Drinking Grapefruit Juice

While there's no clear link between grapefruit juice and weight loss, the beverage can still be a part of a balanced diet. Here are some of the benefits of 100-percent grapefruit juice:


1. It Contains Vitamins and Minerals

Grapefruit juice contains vitamins and minerals like calcium and vitamin C, per My Food Data. While these nutrients alone aren't responsible for inducing weight loss, eating a balanced diet full of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean protein and healthy fats can contribute to finding your ideal weight, according to the Mayo Clinic.


And per a May 2014 review in ​​Food & Nutrition Research​, people assigned female at birth (AFAB) who regularly ate grapefruit or drank its juice had higher intakes of vitamin C, potassium, magnesium, fiber and beta-carotene compared to those who didn't.


2. It May Support Healthy Cholesterol Levels

Per the ​​Food & Nutrition Research​ review, grapefruit juice may be good for cholesterol, too. The research found that those who regularly ate the fruit or drank its juice had higher levels of HDL ("good") cholesterol and lower triglyceride levels.


However, it's important to note that this doesn't mean grapefruit juice causes good cholesterol levels — the study just establishes a link between the two.


And remember, grapefruit can interact with medications for high cholesterol. So if you're taking this type of medicine, steer clear of the fruit despite this potential benefit.


3. It May Help Stabilize Blood Sugar Levels

It's possible that drinking grapefruit juice before a meal may help keep your blood sugar levels from spiking. For example, the 2014 ​PLOS One​ study found the mice that drank grapefruit juice had lower blood sugar and improved insulin tolerance compared to the mice that drank water.


Again, though, this study focused on mice, not humans, so more research is needed to clarify this link.


Similarly, the older ​Journal of Medicinal Food​ research found that grapefruit helped reduce insulin levels and improved insulin resistance — however, these results were observed with those who ate fresh grapefruit, not juice. And this study is older, so new research is needed to better establish the relationship between grapefruit juice and blood sugar levels specifically.


Is Ruby Red Grapefruit Juice Good for You?


Ruby red grapefruit juice comes from a fruit that's more red in color than pink, according to the University of Florida. Per My Food Data, pink and red juice have about the same nutritional content, so ruby red grapefruit benefits and effects on weight loss are the same as those listed above.


Tips for Weight Loss

Indeed, this citrusy beverage can be a nutritious addition to a well-rounded diet. But grapefruit juice alone is not the recipe for weight loss.


Per the Mayo Clinic, here are some better tips to keep in mind if shedding pounds is your goal:


Eat enough calories from plant-based foods like fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean protein and healthy fats

Create a calorie deficit by burning more calories than you take in

Exercise regularly

Tip

Calorie intake should not fall below 1,200 per day for people AFAB or 1,500 per day for people assigned male at birth unless under the supervision of a doctor, per Harvard Health Publishing, because eating too few calories can deprive you of nutrients.

Do you fart a lot when you lose weight?

You've made changes to your diet to ramp up your weight loss, and now you're noticing an unwelcome, gassy side effect. Sound familiar?


VIDEO OF THE DAY


Our guts can be finicky, so when you start tinkering with your diet, they're one of the first parts of the body to respond — often by way of gas in the form of bloating and flatulence.


Being gassy isn't always a sign that something bad's happening, by the way. It's possible that you're having gas because you've added more healthy foods to your diet and your body just needs some time to adjust. If your gas is particularly persistent or is causing you pain, though, you should see your doctor.


If you're hoping to get to the bottom of all that bloat, here are four reasons your weight-loss diet is making you gassy, and what you can do to find gas relief.


Do You Lose Weight When You Fart?


Though you may feel lighter after passing gas, farting can't actually help you lose weight because it doesn't burn calories. In fact, it can often be an unconscious process, according to Harvard Health Publishing.


1. You’re Eating More So-Called 'Diet' Foods

If you're stocking up on more "no-sugar-added" or "sugar-free" foods as part of your weight-loss plan, an intolerance to sugar alcohols could be the cause of your gas troubles.


Sugar alcohols, also called polyols, are common in diet-type foods like diet soda, light yogurt and sugar-free snack bars because they don't contain as many calories as regular sugar.


The trouble is, our bodies can't digest sugar alcohols, so when they make their way to our colon, the gut bacteria there break them down, causing gas, bloating and sometimes diarrhea.


Certain fruits and vegetables, like plums, pears, apples, sweet potatoes and mushrooms naturally contain sugar alcohols, which can cause gas and other GI issues in some individuals, per a June 2016 study in ​Clinical and Experimental Gastroenterology​.


​How to fix it:​ Limit your intake of foods containing sugar alcohols, and if the problem persists, try skipping them altogether. Aside from wreaking havoc on your gut, these types of foods are typically highly processed and contain other unwanted additives. Stick to whole foods as much as possible, and if you're going to enjoy something sweet, go for the real thing — just enjoy a smaller portion.


Tip

When you're reading food labels, look out for ingredients that end in "ol," like xylitol and sorbitol. More often than not, these are sugar alcohols.


2. You’re Eating More Fiber

Eating foods rich in fiber is a smart play when trying to lose weight. A high-fiber diet may keep you feeling fuller longer, per the Cleveland Clinic, and eating more nutrient-rich, high-fiber foods (think: fruits, veggies, whole grains, beans, nuts and seeds) means you're likely eating less of the unhealthier options.


But most of us aren't eating enough fiber.


On average, we get about 16 grams per day, yet guidelines recommend between 25 and 38, according to the USDA.


Because we run at such a deficit, this often means we're adding more high-fiber foods to our diet when we're trying to lose weight or following a weight-loss plan — and that can take some getting used to.


Our bodies don't digest fiber until it reaches the large intestine, where the bacteria in our guts break it down for food via fermentation. Fermenting means bubbles, which is why you may get gassy when eating fibrous foods.

LOSE 20 LBS IN 10 DAYS GRAPEFRUIT WEIGHTLOSS DRINK | WHAT I'M EATING TO LOSE WEIGHT



​How to fix it:​ The answer isn't to avoid eating more fiber but to add fiber-rich foods into your diet at a more gradual pace. Start with an extra piece of fruit each day or an extra serving of vegetables. Add a half-cup of beans to your dinner and increase as tolerated. Your body should adjust over time.


Are You Getting Enough Fiber?


Track your daily nutrients by logging your meals on the MyPlate app. Download now to fine-tune your diet today!


3. You're Sipping Carbonated Drinks

Many diet plans encourage drinking more water and less juice and other sweetened beverages. This is a good thing.


But water can get boring for some people, and oftentimes we look for alternatives to help soothe our cravings, turning to diet soda and other low-calorie carbonated beverages.


Carbonated beverages contain bubbles, which means when you drink them, you're putting more air into your gut. Trapped air causes gas. If you're drinking your diet soda or sparkling water with a straw, you're likely swallowing even more air.


​How to fix it:​ If you think carbonated drinks are the culprit, assess how much you're drinking and begin to cut down. You may need to eliminate altogether. If you're missing out on flavor, try drinking plain water with whole fruit infused instead.


Related Reading


Smoothies Can Help You Lose Weight — Unless You're Making These 5 Mistakes


4. You're Eating More Raffinose

Raffi-what? Raffinose is an oligosaccharide — a type of sugar found in some vegetables like broccoli, Brussels sprouts and cabbage, as well as in whole grains and beans.


Raffinose isn't something you should avoid — it's common in plenty of good-for-you foods — but know it may upset your stomach, especially if you're eating it in large quantities.


Like fiber, raffinose bypasses your small intestines — virtually untouched — and isn't broken down until it reaches your colon, where bacteria get to work. The digestion process here releases hydrogen, carbon dioxide and, for about 30 percent of people, methane gas, according to Johns Hopkins Medicine.


​How to fix it:​ Increase your intake of these foods slowly, especially if you find you're sensitive to them. You can also try alpha-galactosidase, an over-the-counter medication — this is an enzyme that will help your body digest raffinose and other complex carbohydrates.

What is the best way for a woman to lose weight?

Diet and exercise may be key components of weight loss for women, but many other factors play a role.


In fact, studies show that everything from sleep quality to stress levels can have a major impact on hunger, metabolism, body weight, and belly fat.


Fortunately, making a few small changes in your daily routine can bring big benefits when it comes to weight loss.


Here are the top 23 weight loss tips for women.


1. Cut Down on Refined Carbs

Refined carbs undergo extensive processing, reducing the amount of fiber and micronutrients in the final product.


These foods spike blood sugar levels, increase hunger, and are associated with increased body weight and belly fat (1Trusted Source, 2Trusted Source, 3Trusted Source).


Therefore, it’s best to limit refined carbs like white bread, pasta, and prepackaged foods. Opt for whole-grain products like oats, brown rice, quinoa, buckwheat, and barley instead.



2. Add Resistance Training to Your Routine

Resistance training builds muscle and increases endurance.


It’s especially beneficial for women over 50, as it increases the number of calories that your body burns at rest. It also helps preserve bone mineral density to protect against osteoporosis (4Trusted Source, 5Trusted Source).


Lifting weights, using gym equipment, or performing body-weight exercises are a few simple ways to get started.


3. Drink More Water

Drinking more water is an easy and effective way to promote weight loss with minimal effort.


According to one small study, drinking 16.9 ounces (500 ml) of water temporarily increased the number of calories burned by 30% after 30–40 minutes (6Trusted Source).


Studies also show that drinking water before a meal can increase weight loss and reduce the number of calories consumed by around 13% (7Trusted Source, 8Trusted Source).


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4. Eat More Protein

Protein foods like meat, poultry, seafood, eggs, dairy, and legumes are an important part of a healthy diet, especially when it comes to weight loss.


In fact, studies note that following a high-protein diet can cut cravings, increase feelings of fullness, and boost metabolism (9Trusted Source, 10Trusted Source, 11Trusted Source).


One small 12-week study also found that increasing protein intake by just 15% decreased daily calorie intake by an average of 441 calories — resulting in 11 pounds (5 kg) of weight loss (12Trusted Source).


5. Set a Regular Sleep Schedule

Studies suggest that getting enough sleep may be just as crucial to losing weight as diet and exercise.


Multiple studies have associated sleep deprivation with increased body weight and higher levels of ghrelin, the hormone responsible for stimulating hunger (13Trusted Source, 14Trusted Source, 15Trusted Source).


Furthermore, one study in women showed that getting at least seven hours of sleep each night and improving overall sleep quality increased the likelihood of weight loss success by 33% (16Trusted Source).


WERBUNG



6. Do More Cardio

Aerobic exercise, also known as cardio, increases your heart rate to burn extra calories.


Studies show that adding more cardio to your routine can result in significant weight loss — especially when paired with a healthy diet (17Trusted Source, 18Trusted Source).


For best results, aim for at least 20–40 minutes of cardio per day, or around 150–300 minutes per week (19Trusted Source).


7. Keep a Food Journal

Using a food journal to track what you eat is an easy way to hold yourself accountable, and make healthier choices.


It also makes it easier to count calories, which can be an effective strategy for weight management (20Trusted Source).


What’s more, a food journal can help you stick to your goals, and may result in greater long-term weight loss (21Trusted Source, 22Trusted Source).


8. Fill up on Fiber

Adding more fiber to your diet is a common weight loss strategy to help slow the emptying of your stomach and keep you feeling fuller for longer (23Trusted Source).


Without making any other changes to diet or lifestyle, increasing dietary fiber intake by 14 grams per day has been associated with a 10% decrease in calorie intake and 4.2 pounds (1.9 kg) of weight loss over 3.8 months (24Trusted Source).


Fruits, vegetables, legumes, nuts, seeds, and whole grains are all great sources of fiber that can be enjoyed as part of a balanced diet.


9. Practice Mindful Eating

Mindful eating involves minimizing external distractions during your meal. Try eating slowly and focusing your attention on how your food tastes, looks, smells, and feels.


This practice helps promote healthier eating habits and is a powerful tool for increasing weight loss (25Trusted Source).


Studies show that eating slowly can enhance feelings of fullness and may lead to significant reductions in daily calorie intake (26Trusted Source, 27Trusted Source).


10. Snack Smarter

Selecting healthy, low-calorie snacks is a great way to lose weight and stay on track by minimizing hunger levels between meals.


Choose snacks that are high in protein and fiber to promote fullness and curb cravings.


Whole fruit paired with nut butter, veggies with hummus, or Greek yogurt with nuts are examples of nutritious snacks that can support long-lasting weight loss.


11. Ditch the Diet

Although fad diets often promise quick weight loss, they can do more harm than good when it comes to your waistline and your health.


For example, one study in college women showed that eliminating certain foods from their diet increased cravings and overeating (28Trusted Source).


Fad diets can also promote unhealthy eating habits and lead to yo-yo dieting, both of which are detrimental to long-term weight loss.


12. Squeeze in More Steps

When you’re pressed for time and unable to fit in a full workout, squeezing more steps into your day is an easy way to burn extra calories and increase weight loss.


In fact, it’s estimated that non-exercise-related activity may account for 50% of the calories your body burns throughout the day (29Trusted Source).


Taking the stairs instead of the elevator, parking further from the door, or taking a walk during your lunch break are a few simple strategies to bump up your total number of steps and burn more calories.


13. Set Attainable Goals

Setting SMART goals can make it easier to reach your weight loss goals while also setting you up for success.


SMART goals should be specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound. They should hold you accountable and lay out a plan for how to reach your goals.


For example, instead of simply setting a goal to lose 10 pounds, set a goal to lose 10 pounds in 3 months by keeping a food journal, going to the gym 3 times per week, and adding a serving of vegetables to each meal.


14. Keep Stress Under Control

Some studies suggest that increased stress levels can contribute to a higher risk of weight gain over time (30Trusted Source, 31Trusted Source).


Stress may also alter eating patterns and contribute to issues like overeating and binging (32Trusted Source).


Exercising, listening to music, practicing yoga, journaling, and talking to friends or family are several easy and effective ways to lower stress levels.


15. Try HIIT

High-intensity interval training, also known as HIIT, pairs intense bursts of movement with brief recovery periods to help keep your heart rate elevated.


Swapping cardio for HIIT a few times per week can amp up weight loss.


HIIT can decrease belly fat, increase weight loss, and has been shown to burn more calories than other activities, such as biking, running, and resistance training (33Trusted Source, 34Trusted Source).


16. Use Smaller Plates

Switching to a smaller plate size may help promote portion control, aiding weight loss.


Although research remains limited and inconsistent, one study showed that participants who used a smaller plate ate less and felt more satisfied than those who used a normal-size plate (35Trusted Source).


Using a smaller plate can also limit your portion size, which can reduce your risk of overeating and keep calorie consumption in check.


17. Take a Probiotic Supplement

Probiotics are a type of beneficial bacteria that can be consumed through food or supplements to help support gut health.


Studies show that probiotics can promote weight loss by increasing the excretion of fat and altering hormone levels to reduce appetite (36Trusted Source, 37Trusted Source).


In particular, Lactobacillus gasseri is a strain of probiotic that’s especially effective. Studies show that it can help decrease belly fat and overall body weight (38Trusted Source, 39Trusted Source).


18. Practice Yoga

Studies show that practicing yoga can help prevent weight gain and increase fat burning (40Trusted Source, 41Trusted Source, 42Trusted Source).


Yoga can also decrease stress levels and anxiety — both of which may be tied to emotional eating (43Trusted Source).


Additionally, practicing yoga has been shown to reduce binge eating and prevent preoccupation with food to support healthy eating behaviors (44Trusted Source, 45Trusted Source).


19. Chew Slower

Making a conscious effort to chew slowly and thoroughly can help increase weight loss by cutting down on the amount of food you eat.


According to one study, chewing 50 times per bite significantly decreased calorie intake compared to chewing 15 times per bite (46Trusted Source).


Another study showed that chewing food either 150% or 200% more than normal reduced food intake by 9.5% and 14.8%, respectively (47Trusted Source).


20. Eat a Healthy Breakfast

Enjoying a nutritious breakfast first thing in the morning can help start your day off on the right foot and keep you feeling full until your next meal.


In fact, studies find that sticking to a regular eating pattern may be linked to a reduced risk of binge eating (48Trusted Source, 49Trusted Source).


Eating a high-protein breakfast has been shown to decrease levels of the hunger-promoting hormone ghrelin. This can help keep appetite and hunger under control (50Trusted Source).

I Tried the Grapefruit Diet



21. Experiment With Intermittent Fasting

Intermittent fasting involves alternating between eating and fasting for a specific window of time each day. Periods of fasting typically last 14–24 hours.


Intermittent fasting is thought to be as effective as cutting calories when it comes to weight loss (51Trusted Source).


It may also help enhance metabolism by increasing the number of calories burned at rest (52Trusted Source).


22. Limit Processed Foods

Processed foods are typically high in calories, sugar, and sodium — yet low in important nutrients like protein, fiber, and micronutrients.


Studies show that consuming more processed foods is associated with excess body weight — especially among women (53Trusted Source, 54Trusted Source).


Therefore, it’s best to limit your intake of processed foods and opt for whole foods, such as fruits, vegetables, healthy fats, lean proteins, whole grains, and legumes.


23. Cut Back on Added Sugar

Added sugar is a major contributor to weight gain and serious health issues, such as diabetes and heart disease (55Trusted Source).


Foods high in added sugar are loaded with extra calories but lacking in the vitamins, minerals, fiber, and protein that your body needs to thrive.


For this reason, it’s best to minimize your intake of sugary foods like soda, candy, fruit juice, sports drinks, and sweets to help promote weight loss and optimize overall health.


The Bottom Line

Many different factors play a role in weight loss, and some extend far beyond diet and exercise.


Making a few simple modifications to your lifestyle can help promote long-lasting weight loss for women.


Including even one or two of these strategies in your daily routine can help maximize results and promote healthy, sustainable weight loss.

Where does fat go when you lose weight?

Given that obesity is one of the major public health concerns worldwide, many people are looking to lose fat.


Still, a lot of confusion exists around the process of fat loss.


This article reviews what happens to fat when you lose weight.


How fat loss works

Excess consumed energy — usually calories from fats or carbs — is stored in fat cells in the form of triglycerides. This is how your body preserves energy for future needs. Over time, this excess energy results in a fat surplus that can affect your body shape and health.


To promote weight loss, you need to consume fewer calories than you burn. This is referred to as a calorie deficit (1Trusted Source, 2Trusted Source).


Though it varies from person to person, a daily 500-calorie deficit is a good place to start to see noticeable fat loss (3Trusted Source).


By maintaining a consistent calorie deficit, fats are released from fat cells and transported to the energy-producing machinery of the cells in your body called mitochondria. Here, the fat is broken down through a series of processes to produce energy.


If the calorie deficit continues, fat stores from your body will continue to be used as energy, resulting in a reduction in body fat.


SUMMARY

Over time, a consistent calorie deficit frees fat from fat cells, after which it’s converted into energy to fuel your body. As this process continues, body fat stores are reduced, leading to changes in body composition.



Diet and exercise are key

The two main promoters of fat loss are diet and exercise.


A sufficient calorie deficit causes fats to be released from fat cells and used as energy.


Exercise amplifies this process by increasing blood flow to muscles and fat cells, releasing fats to be used for energy in muscle cells at a more rapid rate and increasing energy expenditure (4Trusted Source).


To promote weight loss, the American College of Sports Medicine recommends a minimum of 150–250 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week, equaling around 30–50 minutes of exercise 5 days per week (5Trusted Source).


For maximum benefit, this exercise should be a combination of resistance training to maintain or increase muscle mass and aerobic exercise to increase calorie burn (4Trusted Source).


Common resistance training exercises include lifting weights, bodyweight exercises, and resistance bands, while examples of aerobic exercise are running, biking, or using an elliptical machine.


When calorie restriction and a nutrient-dense diet are paired with a proper exercise regimen, fat loss is more likely to occur, as opposed to utilizing diet or exercise alone (6Trusted Source).


For best results, consider seeking help from a registered dietitian for dietary guidance and certified personal trainer for exercise programming.


SUMMARY

Diet and exercise serve as the major contributors to fat loss. A nutritious diet that provides a proper calorie deficit combined with sufficient exercise is the recipe for sustainable fat loss.


Where does it go?

As the process of fat loss progresses, fat cells drastically shrink in size, resulting in visible changes in body composition.


Byproducts of fat loss

When body fat is broken down for energy through complex processes within your cells, two major byproducts are released — carbon dioxide and water.


The carbon dioxide is exhaled during breathing, and the water is disposed of through either urine, sweat, or exhaled air. Disposal of these byproducts is greatly elevated during exercise due to increased breathing and sweating (7Trusted Source, 8Trusted Source).


Where do you lose fat first?

Commonly, people desire to lose weight from the belly, hips, thighs, and butt.


While spot reduction, or losing weight in a particular area, has not been shown to be effective, some people tend to lose weight from certain areas faster than others do (9Trusted Source, 10Trusted Source).


That said, genetic and lifestyle factors play a significant role in body fat distribution (11Trusted Source, 12Trusted Source).


Moreover, if you have a history of weight loss and weight regain, body fat may distribute differently due to changes in fat cells over time (13Trusted Source).


Why is it so hard to keep weight off?

When you eat more than your body can burn, fat cells increase in both size and number (14Trusted Source).


When you lose fat, these same cells can shrink in size, though their number remains roughly the same. Thus, the primary reason for changes in body shape is a reduced size — not number — of fat cells (14Trusted Source).


This also means that when you lose weight, fat cells remain present, and if efforts are not made to maintain weight loss, they can easily grow in size again. Some studies suggest that this may be one reason why maintaining weight loss is so difficult for many people (14Trusted Source, 15Trusted Source, 16).


SUMMARY

During weight loss, fat cells shrink in size as their contents are used for energy, though their numbers remain unchanged. Byproducts of fat loss include carbon dioxide and water, which are disposed of through breathing, urination, and sweating.


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Timeline of fat loss

Depending on how much weight you aim to lose, the duration of your fat loss journey can vary significantly.


Rapid weight loss has been associated with several negative side effects, such as micronutrient deficiency, headaches, fatigue, muscle loss, and menstrual irregularities (17Trusted Source).


As such, many advocate for a slow, gradual rate of weight loss due to the expectation that it’s more sustainable and may prevent weight regain. However, limited information is available (18Trusted Source, 19Trusted Source, 20Trusted Source).


That said, if you have a significant amount of fat to lose, a more rapid approach may be warranted, whereas a gradual approach may be more appropriate for those who have less fat to lose.


The expected rate of weight loss varies with how aggressive the weight loss program is.


For those with overweight or obesity, a weight loss of 5–10% of your starting body weight during the first 6 months may be possible with a comprehensive lifestyle intervention including diet, physical activity, and behavioral techniques (21Trusted Source).


Some other factors affect weight loss, such as gender, age, the extent of your calorie deficit, and sleep quality. Also, certain medications may affect your weight. Thus, it’s advisable to consult your healthcare provider before starting a fat loss regimen (22Trusted Source, 23Trusted Source, 24Trusted Source).


Once you reach your desired body weight, your calorie intake can be adjusted to maintain your weight. Just remember, it’s important to continue exercising regularly and eating a balanced, nutritious diet to prevent weight regain and promote overall health.


SUMMARY

Fat loss timelines vary by individual. While gradual weight loss may be more appropriate for some, those with a lot of weight to lose may benefit from faster rates of weight loss. Other factors affecting weight loss should also be taken into consideration.


The bottom line

Fat loss is a complex process influenced by a number of factors, with diet and physical activity being two of the major ones.


With a sufficient calorie deficit and proper exercise regimen, fat cells shrink over time as their contents are used for energy, leading to improved body composition and health.


It’s important to consult your healthcare provider prior to starting your weight loss journey to prevent any potential negative side effects.

What juice helps you lose weight?

Juices can be a quick and convenient way to squeeze some extra nutrients into your diet and promote weight loss.


However, some types of juice are high in sugar and low in fiber, which can ramp up your calorie intake and even lead to weight gain over time.


This is especially true with many store-bought juices, which are often brimming with sugar, artificial flavors, and preservatives.


Fortunately, there are plenty of healthy and delicious juices that you can make at home using just a few simple ingredients and a juicer.


Alternatively, you can use a blender. This method is preferable because it retains a higher amount of fiber, which can help promote feelings of fullness and manage your hunger.


Here are 8 of the best juices for weight loss.


Pixel Stories/Stocksy United

1. Celery juice

Celery juice has recently become a popular ingredient among health-conscious consumers.


It’s not only low in calories but also comprises more than 95% water (1Trusted Source).


Studies show that choosing foods and beverages with a lower calorie density could be beneficial for weight loss and fat loss (2Trusted Source, 3Trusted Source).


Celery juice is also a great source of antioxidants and beneficial plant compounds, which can help reduce oxidative stress and fight inflammation (4Trusted Source).


SUMMARY

Celery juice is low in calories and has a high water content, which may be beneficial for weight loss. It’s also loaded with anti-inflammatory antioxidants and beneficial plant compounds.



2. Beet juice

Athletes often consume beet juice when they’re looking to boost their performance. That’s because this juice contains beneficial compounds like dietary nitrates (5Trusted Source).


Dietary nitrates can help increase muscle efficiency and endurance, as well as reduce blood pressure levels by dilating your blood vessels (6Trusted Source, 7Trusted Source).


Meanwhile, whole beets are low in calories and loaded with fiber, which can help support regularity, slow stomach emptying, and keep you feeling fuller for longer to promote weight management (8Trusted Source, 9Trusted Source).


As most of their fiber content is eliminated during the juicing process, beet juice generally doesn’t contain high amounts of this nutrient. That said, it’s a lower calorie and nutritious juice option when you’re looking to lose weight.


SUMMARY

Beetroot juice is low in calories and rich in nutrients and dietary nitrates, which can enhance sports performance through blood vessel dilation.


3. Pomegranate juice

Westend61/Getty Images

In addition to being delicious and refreshing, pomegranate juice is a healthy, low calorie drink that may support weight loss (10Trusted Source).


According to one animal study, pomegranate juice blocked weight gain in mice fed a high fat diet (11Trusted Source).


Some research also suggests that pomegranates may help prevent blood sugar spikes and crashes that may otherwise lead to increased feelings of hunger (12, 13Trusted Source).


In fact, one study in 16 people found that the antioxidants in pomegranate juice stabilized blood sugar levels after they ate bread, which might otherwise have led to increased blood sugar levels (14Trusted Source).


SUMMARY

Pomegranate juice is rich an antioxidant rich, low calorie beverage that may help support blood sugar managment.


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4. Green veggie juice

Although the exact ingredients of green juices can vary, most feature leafy green vegetables like kale, spinach, or cabbage.


These ingredients are high in fiber, low in sugar, and jam-packed with anti-inflammatory antioxidants (9Trusted Source, 15Trusted Source, 16Trusted Source).


Interestingly, studies show that increasing your intake of fruits and vegetables may be linked to decreased body weight and a reduced risk of weight gain and fat gain over time (17Trusted Source, 18Trusted Source).


Plus, green juices are easy to tailor to your taste buds by swapping in your favorite ingredients. For a simple green juice you can make at home, try blending spinach, cucumber, green apples, and celery — then enjoy.


By using a blender instead of a juicer, you get the added benefit of all the nutrients and fiber from the leafy greens, making it even more satiating and weight-loss-friendly.


SUMMARY

Green juices are made with leafy green vegetables, which are fiber-rich and low in sugar. Studies show that eating more fruits and veggies may be associated with decreased body weight and a reduced risk of weight and fat gain.


5. Watermelon juice

Watermelon juice is sweet, refreshing, and highly nutritious.


Besides being low in calories, watermelon is a great source of heart-healthy micronutrients like potassium and the immune-supporting antioxidants vitamins A and C (19Trusted Source).


It also boasts a high water content, which could help you lose weight and feel fuller.


One 4-week study including 33 people gave 2 cups (300 grams) of fresh watermelon to participants daily. They experienced significant reductions in body weight, belly fat, hunger, and food cravings compared with those in a control group (20Trusted Source).


SUMMARY

Watermelon juice is low in calories and has a high water content, which could support weight management.


6. Lemon-ginger green juice

Lemon-ginger green juice can be a vibrant and delicious addition to a healthy weight loss diet.


In particular, lemons can help add a zip of flavor to your drink while squeezing in some extra antioxidants (21Trusted SourceTrusted Source).

How to Use Grapefruit for Weight Loss



Some studies in humans and animals also show that ginger could help boost metabolism, reduce appetite, and promote weight loss (22Trusted Source, 23Trusted Source, 24Trusted Source).


Meanwhile, greens like spinach or kale — when blended rather than juiced — can bump up your intake of fiber to keep you feeling full between meals (9Trusted Source).


To get started, simply add a small knob of peeled ginger, some freshly squeezed lemon juice, and 1 cup (30 grams) of raw spinach to your food processor and blend.


SUMMARY

Lemon-ginger green juice features several nutritious ingredients that could help enhance feelings of fullness, support your metabolism, and decrease appetite.


7. Carrot juice

Anna Pustynnikova/Getty Images

Carrot juice is a nutrient-dense beverage, packing plenty of vitamin A and other healthy carotenoids into each serving (25Trusted Source).


Blending your carrots instead of juicing them can also help boost your intake of fiber to enhance feelings of fullness and help regulate your appetite (9Trusted Source, 26Trusted Source).


Plus, carrots are rich in carotenoids, a type of plant pigment found in many fruits and vegetables (27Trusted Source).


Interestingly, one 8-week study including 28 men with obesity found that those who drank a beverage rich in carotenoids daily experienced significant reductions in belly fat (28Trusted Source).


SUMMARY

Carrot juice is rich in fiber and carotenoids, both of which may be beneficial for weight loss.


8. Kale apple juice

Kale apple juice can be a healthy, high fiber alternative to sugary, store-bought fruit juices.


Kale, in particular, has nearly 1 gram of fiber per cup (21 grams). Studies have shown it helps stabilize blood sugar levels after meals in both humans and animals (15Trusted Source, 29Trusted Source, 30Trusted Source).


Apples are also high in fiber and a host of other nutrients. Research has found that consuming them is associated with increased weight loss and improved diet quality in both children and adults (31Trusted Source, 32Trusted Source, 33Trusted Source).


To make kale apple juice at home, simply blend a handful of kale leaves with a few sliced apples.


You can dial up the flavor and health benefits even further by adding other ingredients like celery, lemon juice, ginger, or carrots.


SUMMARY

Kale is high in fiber and can support healthy blood sugar levels. Apples are also very nutritious and may be associated with increased weight loss and improved diet quality.


The bottom line

Many healthy and delicious juices can support long-term weight loss.


Ideal juices for weight loss are low in sugar, high in fiber, and rich in other important nutrients, including vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.


You can use this list as a starting point and experiment with your favorite ingredients to create healthy juices at home using a juicer or blender.

What are the negative effects of grapefruit?

Grapefruit poses a potentially lethal health risk to increasing numbers of patients taking prescription drugs, experts have warned. The fruit contains chemicals that can interact with certain drugs, making them more potent. Adverse effects can include acute kidney failure, respiratory failure, internal bleeding and sudden death.


While it is well known that some patients should avoid grapefruit, or grapefruit juice, the list of drugs involved has risen sharply in recent years.


Between 2008 and 2012 the number of medications with the potential to cause serious harm by interacting with grapefruit increased from 17 to 43, according to scientists writing in the Canadian Medical Association Journal. Each year, more than six of these drugs on average were being made available to patients.


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Dr David Bailey, from Lawson Health Research Institute in London, Ontario, and colleagues described the trend as "disturbing".


The article says: "Unless healthcare professionals are aware of the possibility that the adverse event they are seeing might have an origin in the recent addition of grapefruit to the patient's diet, it is very unlikely that they will investigate it.


"In addition, the patient may not volunteer this information. Thus, we contend that there remains a lack of knowledge about this interaction in the general healthcare community."


More than 85 drugs can interact with grapefruit, and of these 43 can have serious side effects, say the researchers.


Other citrus fruits such as Seville oranges, used to make marmalade, and limes contained the same active ingredients that caused the drug interactions.


The chemicals, called furanocoumarins, act on an enzyme in the gut that normally reduces the potency of medication. This can effectively boost the dose of some drugs many times.


The list of danger medicines includes treatments for anxiety, depression, allergy, HIV infection, seizures, heart rhythm abnormalities and high cholesterol.


A modest single helping of grapefruit can have an effect even if consumed hours before a drug is taken, say the scientists.


Frequent exposure to grapefruit could make matters worse. Combining the cholesterol-lowering drug simvastatin with a 200-millilitre glass of grapefruit juice once a day for three days more than trebled its concentration level. Older people with a reduced ability to tolerate drug overdoses were at greatest risk.


"The current trend of increasing numbers of newly marketed grapefruit-affected drugs possessing substantial adverse clinical effects necessitates an understanding of this interaction and the application of this knowledge for the safe and effective use of drugs in general practice," the article concludes.


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Do u lose weight when u poop?

Pooping is simple: When you do it, you’re getting rid of food that was in your body. Is that why we feel lighter after doing our business? Are we actually losing weight? It turns out, yes.


How much does poop weigh?

The weight of your poop varies. It depends on several factors:


body size

eating habits

how much water you drink

bowel movement regularity

The average poop weighs around 1/4 pound to 1 pound.


Larger people who eat and drink more, or people who have less-regular bowel movements, have heavier poops. It takes an average of 33 hours for food to be processed into poop and pass out of your body.


If we only lose a little bit of weight when we poop, why do we feel so much slimmer finally pooping after being constipated or after a large meal? It’s because pooping reduces gas and bloating. This generally helps you feel more comfortable.


Poop is made mostly of water, but also contains:


dead and living bacteria

protein

undigested food (fiber)

waste material

salt

fat

The longer poop stays in the intestines, the drier and heavier it will become. While most people poop once a day, it’s considered normal to poop as frequently as three times a day or as little as once every three days.


Having very frequent, loose watery stools is considered diarrhea. Diarrhea is usually caused by bacterial infections or stress and lasts several days. It can become dangerous when it lasts for weeks or more because it encourages water loss in the body.


People with diarrhea can lose a lot of weight if they’ve been sick for a while, but they’re losing mostly water weight.



Is pooping an effective weight loss strategy?

We do lose a bit of weight when we poop, but it’s not an effective way to lose the weight that really affects our health: body fat.


Experts say fat that accumulates around the waist is the most dangerous type of body fat. This fat is called visceral fat. It’s doesn’t lie beneath the skin like most fat on the body, called subcutaneous fat.


Instead, visceral fat is stored deep inside the abdominal cavity around the internal organs.


Visceral fat is associated with many serious health problems, from metabolic problems to increased risk of heart disease and type 2 diabetes. It’s also associated with breast cancer and gallbladder disease in women.


To lose body fat, you need to focus on burning more calories than you consume. You can do this through diet and exercise — not your bowel habits.


If you’re overweight or obese and need to shed pounds, start by adding exercise to your daily routine. Try to exercise moderately for 30 minutes a day. This could include walking, swimming, biking, jogging or lifting weights.


Getting enough exercise is also an important factor in keeping your bowel habits regular. You might see that you poop more often when you start an exercise routine.


The bottom line

While you might feel lighter after pooping, you’re not actually losing much weight. What’s more, when you lose weight while pooping, you’re not losing the weight that really matters.


To lose disease-causing body fat, you need to burn more calories than you consume. You can do this by exercising more and eating less.


Replacing the processed foods in your diet with high-fiber foods can help you achieve your weight loss goals and reduce your risks of obesity-related disease.

What are the 9 Rules to lose weight?

Sustained long-term weight loss should be viewed as a lifelong commitment. For weight loss to be effective, one must make gradual, permanent changes to their current lifestyle. The best and safest way to lose weight is to limit high-calorie foods, choosing lower-calorie alternatives and cutting down on food portion sizes. Avoid fad diets and crash dieting.



The 9 best rules for weight loss

Stay hydrated

The stomach can communicate directly with the brain's hunger control center. When special receptors in the stomach are stimulated by the incoming food or fluid, they send signals to the brain, causing any further hunger signals to be suppressed.

To capitalize on this phenomenon, drink calorie-free fluids throughout the day, especially before and after meals (lemon water, sparkling water, unsweetened tea or plain cold water, green tea)

Although daily hydration needs vary depending on weight, activity level, and climate, a good rule of thumb is to drink half an ounce to an ounce of water for every pound of your current weight.

Change eating habits

To help control hunger, eat three balanced meals per day. Do not skip any meals, including breakfast.

Eat small servings of a variety of foods and be mindful of portion sizes.

Eat slowly and try not to multitask while eating.

Find other ways to divert attention away from food when hungry (such as walking).

Create your calorie deficit plan

To lose weight and fat, you must burn more calories than you consume each day. Consume nutritiously and filling foods high in protein and fiber.

High protein and fiber in foods (such as fruits and vegetables, whole grains, nuts, seeds, nut butter, lentils, legumes) help keep the body full for longer, lowering overall calorie intake.

Consume good carbohydrates (for energy) and fat (for essential fatty acids and assimilation of vitamins A, D, E, and K).

To create a calorie deficit, practice portion control while making wise choices.

Include more protein in the diet

According to research, protein is extremely effective for weight loss and improves body composition. Eating more protein may result in increased fat burning and metabolism.

Science suggests that protein has a thermic (calorie burning) effect, which as a result, it can assist the body to burn more calories while sleeping.

Furthermore, protein is the most filling nutrient, so eating more of it may result in consuming less food.

Exercise often

Exercising increases metabolism and helps burn calories. The key to getting the most out of exercise is to do it regularly. Look for fun activities that help break a sweat.

Choosing fun workouts helps people look forward to exercising. Exercise routines that are monotonous and feel like a chore should be avoided.

Be physically active

Regular physical activity, in addition to regular exercise, is essential. This is because exercising for only one hour per day and remaining physically inactive for the rest of the day will not aid in fat or weight loss.

For every 30 minutes of sitting, take a three-minute walk or stand by distributing your weight evenly on both feet (without leaning).

This is an efficient way to break up long periods of sitting while also increasing physical activity.

Daily discipline in diet

Maintaining a carefully selected diet is the most important rule.

Ensure that this diverse menu consists entirely of foods that do not jeopardize weight loss efforts.

Have a variety of options at each meal but keep them all healthy and within the same nutrient and caloric range for weight loss.

Allow a cheat day

Allow a cheat day occasionally if on the right track to losing weight. The best way to approach a cheat day is to figure out what works for you.

While a single-day binge can be beneficial for some people, indulging in smaller portions of favorite foods on occasion could be more sustainable in the long run for others.

Sleep is as important as diet and exercise

The quality of sleep is just as important as the quantity. Sleep deprivation can make people feel sluggish and increase food cravings. 

One of the fundamental rules to follow is to get enough sleep based on age.

Weight loss is about doing the right things and avoiding the wrong ones. Ensure that whatever methods you use to follow are long-lasting. Something that you cannot keep up with for the rest of your life is not worth doing in the first place and will not be effective in the long run.

What should I eat on an empty stomach to lose weight?

If you have been wondering which weight loss foods can you shed kilos, then do keep in mind these recommendations by Ayurvedic health coach Dimple Jangda.

Dimple Jangda 72 Likes 

weight loss foods 2Start your day with these Ayurvedic foods and lose them kilos. Image courtesy: Shutterstock

Listen to this article

Health is wealth, and it is better to care for it when you are healthy rather than waiting to cure it when diseased. In simple words: prevention is much better than cure. In Ayurveda, the first rule of disease care is thinning of the body and removing toxins from the gut, colon and liver. Weight gain, constipation, and water retention usually leads to the accumulation of toxins.


Does Grapefruit Juice Burn Fat?



You battle all these by eating the right diet and shedding some weight. Here are some Ayurvedic superfoods that you can eat on an empty stomach to aid weight loss and help regain good health.


1. Warm water with lemon or ghee

The first recipe to be consumed empty stomach is 200 ml of plain warm water or with some lemon squeezed in it to improve peristalsis i.e. downward movement of waste and food. If you are a lean body type (vata / ectomorph) or medium body type (pitta/mesomorph), you can also have warm water with 1 tsp ghee to lubricate the digestive tract and eliminate constipation issues.


2. Digestive teas

Make a warm concoction of a herbal spiced tea to consume in the morning. You can boil 1 tsp cumin seeds, 1 tsp fennel seeds, 1 tsp coriander seeds, 1 cardamom, and a pinch of carrom seeds in 500 ml water. Boil and simmer, until it reduces to half its original amount, and drink on an empty stomach to reduce bloating and indigestion issues.


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weight loss foodsBrew these teas to kick start weight loss. Image courtesy: Shutterstock

3. Metabolism tea

Give your metabolism a quick pick-me-up with a concoction of cinnamon, cardamom, clove, grated ginger, pepper, star anise, and turmeric boiled in water. Squeeze some lemon and add coconut sugar for taste. This tea dramatically improves body heat and metabolism, thus aiding weight loss


4. Celery juice

In Ayurveda, we recommend eating raw fruits and having cooked or steamed vegetables to avoid stressing the gut with parasites and bacteria. Completely avoid drinking smoothies that mix fruits, vegetables, milk, yoghurt, and other such unhealthy combinations that cause accumulation of ama or toxins in the body. Instead, you can have the juice of celery with little pink salt and coconut oil to reduce inflammation in the body and thus lose some kilos.



weight loss foodsDrink these celery potions to lose weight. Image courtesy: Shutterstock

5. Raw fruits

After having the herbal teas, have a bowl of raw fruits that are astringent in nature like green apple, red apple, cranberries, blueberries, cherries, strawberries, pineapple, blackberry, Indian gooseberry (Amla), semi-ripe banana, and pomegranate. These fruits reduce water retention in the body and tighten the tissues and collagen in your skin. This aids in weight loss. Avoid having sweet juicy fruits like pumpkins, melons, cantaloupe and others.


Wait for your metabolism and appetite to improve and consume breakfast after an hour of having fruits.


weight loss foodsAdd fruits in every meal to lose maximum weight. Image courtesy: Shutterstock

Also, remember these basic rules for weight loss:


1. Eat only when you are hungry.



2. Follow the circadian rhythm of the sun and do not consume foods after sunset.


3. Do intermittent fasting for 16 hours, starting at sunset and break your fast 2 hours after sunrise.


4. Eat fruits before cooked foods.


5. Remember your stomach is the size of your fist. Break your meals into smaller meals, and eat only 80% of your appetite so there is room for your digestive juices to break down your food.

What is the simple morning ritual to lose weight?

No matter what your weight loss goals are, losing weight can feel impossible at times.


However, shedding a few pounds doesn’t have to involve a complete overhaul of your current diet and lifestyle.


In fact, making a few small changes to your morning routine can help you lose weight and keep it off.


This article lists 10 simple morning habits to incorporate into your regimen to aid your weight loss efforts.


1. Eat a High-Protein Breakfast

There’s a good reason breakfast is considered the most important meal of the day.


What you eat for breakfast can set the course for your entire day. It determines if you’ll feel full and satisfied until lunch, or if you’ll be heading to the vending machine before your mid-morning snack.


Eating a high-protein breakfast may help cut cravings and aid in weight loss.


In one study in 20 adolescent girls, eating a high-protein breakfast reduced post-meal cravings more effectively than a normal-protein breakfast (1Trusted Source).


Another small study showed that eating a high-protein breakfast was associated with less fat gain and reduced daily intake and hunger, compared to a normal-protein breakfast (2Trusted Source).


Protein may also aid weight loss by decreasing levels of ghrelin, the “hunger hormone” that is responsible for increasing appetite.


In fact, one study in 15 men found that a high-protein breakfast suppressed ghrelin secretion more effectively than a high-carb breakfast (3Trusted Source).


To help get your day off to a good start, consider protein sources like eggs, Greek yogurt, cottage cheese, nuts and chia seeds.


SUMMARY

Studies show that a high-protein breakfast may aid weight loss by reducing cravings, appetite and ghrelin secretion.



2. Drink Plenty of Water

Starting your morning with a glass or two of water is an easy way to enhance weight loss.


Water can help increase your energy expenditure, or the number of calories your body burns, for at least 60 minutes.


In one small study, drinking 16.9 fluid ounces (500 ml) of water led to a 30% increase in metabolic rate, on average (4Trusted Source).


Another study found that overweight women who increased their water intake to over 34 ounces (one liter) per day lost an extra 4.4 pounds (2 kg) over one year, without making any other changes in their diet or exercise routine (5Trusted Source).


What’s more, drinking water may reduce appetite and food intake in some individuals.


One study in 24 older adults showed that drinking 16.9 fluid ounces (500 ml) of water reduced the number of calories consumed at breakfast by 13% (6Trusted Source).


In fact, most studies on the topic have shown that drinking 34–68 ounces (1–2 liters) of water per day can aid in weight loss.


Starting your morning with water and staying well hydrated throughout the day is a great way to boost weight loss with minimal effort.


SUMMARY

Increasing your water intake has been associated with an increase in weight loss and energy expenditure, as well as a decrease in appetite and food intake.


3. Weigh Yourself

Stepping on the scale and weighing yourself each morning can be an effective method to increase motivation and improve self-control.


Several studies have associated weighing yourself daily with greater weight loss.


For instance, a study in 47 people found that those who weighed themselves daily lost about 13 pounds (6 kg) more over six months than those who weighed themselves less often (7Trusted Source).


Another study reported that adults who weighed themselves daily lost an average of 9.7 pounds (4.4 kg) over a two-year period, while those who weighed themselves once a month gained 4.6 pounds (2.1 kg) (8Trusted Source).


Weighing yourself every morning can also help foster healthy habits and behaviors that may promote weight loss.


In one large study, frequent self-weighing was associated with improved restraint. Furthermore, those who stopped weighing themselves frequently were more likely to report increased calorie intake and decreased self-discipline (9Trusted Source).


For best results, weigh yourself right when you wake up. Do so after using the bathroom and before you eat or drink anything.


Additionally, remember that your weight may fluctuate daily and can be influenced by a variety of factors. Focus on the big picture and look for overall weight loss trends, rather than getting fixated on small day-to-day changes.


SUMMARY

Studies have found that daily self-weighing may be associated with more weight loss and increased restraint.


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4. Get Some Sun

Opening the curtains to let in some sunlight or spending a few extra minutes outside each morning can help kickstart your weight loss.


One small study found that exposure to even moderate levels of light at certain times of the day can have an influence on weight (10Trusted Source).


Moreover, an animal study found that exposure to ultraviolet radiation helped suppress weight gain in mice fed a high-fat diet (11Trusted Source).


Exposure to sunlight is also the best way to meet your vitamin D needs. Some studies have found that meeting your vitamin D requirements can aid in weight loss and even prevent weight gain.


In one study, 218 overweight and obese women took either vitamin D supplements or a placebo for one year. At the end of the study, those who met their vitamin D requirement lost an average of 7 pounds (3.2 kg) more than those with inadequate vitamin D blood levels (12Trusted Source).


Another study followed 4,659 older women for four years and found that higher levels of vitamin D were linked to less weight gain (13Trusted Source).


The amount of sun exposure you need can vary based on your skin type, the season and your location. However, letting in some sunlight or sitting outside for 10–15 minutes each morning may have a beneficial effect on weight loss.


SUMMARY

Sun exposure may have an influence on weight. Sunlight can also help you meet your vitamin D needs, which may help increase weight loss and prevent weight gain.


5. Practice Mindfulness

Mindfulness is a practice that involves fully focusing on the present moment and bringing awareness to your thoughts and feelings.


The practice has been shown to enhance weight loss and promote healthy eating habits.


For example, an analysis of 19 studies found that mindfulness-based interventions increased weight loss and reduced obesity-related eating behaviors (14Trusted Source).


Another review had similar findings, noting that mindfulness training resulted in significant weight loss in 68% of the studies reviewed (15Trusted Source).


Practicing mindfulness is simple. To get started, try spending five minutes each morning sitting comfortably in a calm space and connecting with your senses.


SUMMARY

Some studies have found that mindfulness can increase weight loss and promote healthy eating behaviors.


6. Squeeze in Some Exercise

Getting in some physical activity first thing in the morning can help boost weight loss.


One study in 50 overweight women measured the effects of aerobic exercise at different times of the day.


While there was not much difference noted in specific food cravings between those who exercised in the morning versus the afternoon, working out in the morning was associated with a higher level of satiety (16Trusted Source).


Exercising in the morning may also help keep blood sugar levels steady throughout the day. Low blood sugar can result in many negative symptoms, including excessive hunger.


One study in 35 people with type 1 diabetes showed that working out in the morning was associated with improved blood sugar control (17Trusted Source).


However, these studies focused on very specific populations and show an association, rather than causation. More research on the effects of morning exercise in the general population is needed.


SUMMARY

Some studies have found that exercising in the morning may be associated with increased satiety and improved blood sugar control.


7. Pack Your Lunch

Making the effort to plan and pack your lunch ahead of time can be a simple way to make better food choices and increase weight loss.


A large study including 40,554 people found that meal planning was associated with better diet quality, more diet variety and a lower risk of obesity (18Trusted Source).


Another study found that eating home-cooked meals more frequently was associated with improved diet quality and a decreased risk of excess body fat.


In fact, those who ate home-cooked meals at least five times per week were 28% less likely to be overweight than those who only ate home-cooked meals three times or less per week (19Trusted Source).


Try setting aside a few hours one night a week to plan and prepare your meals so that in the morning you can just grab your lunch and go.


SUMMARY

Studies show that meal planning and eating home-cooked meals are associated with improved diet quality and a lower risk of obesity.


8. Sleep Longer

Going to bed a bit earlier or setting your alarm clock later to squeeze in some extra sleep may help increase weight loss.


Several studies have found that sleep deprivation may be associated with an increased appetite (20Trusted Source, 21Trusted Source).


One small study found that sleep restriction increased hunger and cravings, especially for high-carb, high-calorie foods (22Trusted Source).

How to Drink Grapefruit Juice to Lose Weight - Natural fast weight loss



Lack of sleep has also been linked to an increase in calorie intake.


In one study, 12 participants consumed an average of 559 more calories after getting just four hours of sleep, compared to when they got a full eight hours (23Trusted Source).


Establishing a healthy sleep schedule is a critical component of weight loss, along with eating well and exercising. To maximize your results, aim for at least eight hours of sleep per night.


SUMMARY

Studies show that sleep deprivation may increase appetite and cravings, as well as calorie intake.


9. Switch up Your Commute

While driving may be one of the most convenient ways to get to work, it may not be so great for your waistline.


Research shows that walking, biking or using public transportation may be tied to a lower body weight and reduced risk of weight gain.


One study followed 822 people over four years and found that those who commuted by car tended to gain more weight than non-car commuters (24Trusted Source).


Similarly, a study including 15,777 people showed that using public transportation or active methods of transport, such as walking or biking, was associated with a significantly lower body mass index and body fat percentage, compared to using private transportation (25Trusted Source).


Changing up your commute even a few times per week may be a simple way to ramp up weight loss.


SUMMARY

Walking, biking and using public transportation have all been associated with less weight gain and lower body weight and body fat, compared to driving to work.


10. Start Tracking Your Intake

Keeping a food diary to track what you eat can be an effective way to help boost weight loss and keep yourself accountable.


One study tracked weight loss in 123 people for one year and found that completing a food journal was associated with a greater amount of weight loss (26Trusted Source).


Another study showed that participants who regularly used a tracking system to self-monitor their diet and exercise lost more weight than those who did not regularly use the tracking system (27Trusted Source).


Similarly, a study of 220 obese women found that the frequent and consistent use of a self-monitoring tool helped improve long-term weight management (28Trusted Source).


Try using an app or even just a pen and paper to record what you eat and drink, starting with your first meal of the day.


SUMMARY

Studies have found that using a food diary to track your intake can help increase weight loss.


The Bottom Line

Making a few small changes to your morning habits can be an easy and effective way to increase weight loss.


Practicing healthy behaviors in the morning can also get your day started on the right foot and set you up for success.


For best results, make sure you combine these morning habits with a well-rounded diet and healthy lifestyle.

Do you lose more weight on an empty stomach?

You know that exercise is important, but there is a lot of conflicting advice out there concerning the “right” way to work out. One question that often arises is, “Will I lose more weight if I go running on an empty stomach?” Although in theory you may burn more fat this way, total calorie burn is about the same as eating a light snack before you exercise. Also, workouts on an empty stomach tend to be cut short because of hunger or lack of energy. The type of workout you do, the time of day you do it, and the length of time you spend at it are all important factors in choosing when to eat in relation to your workout.


Evidence for the Health Claim

Early-morning runners may not have time to eat before they exercise. As long as their workout is around 30 minutes long and does not include strength training, not eating beforehand could be beneficial. This is because when you wake up in the morning, your stomach is empty and your carbohydrate reserves are almost used up. Your body is thus more likely to burn calories stored as fat for energy.


A study published in the International Journal of Sports Medicine compared eight female subjects in four series of trials. In three of the trials, the subjects ate a small meal following an overnight fast, and then began exercising 30, 60, or 90 minutes after eating. In the fourth trial, the subjects did not eat before exercising. Results showed that the subjects burned more fat when they worked out on an empty stomach than when they exercised 60 or 90 minutes after eating.


A similar study found that people burned more calories from fat on the days that they did not eat breakfast before exercising than on the days that they ate a small snack before their workout. However, the difference was very small, and probably not meaningful.


Evidence Against the Health Claim

Many fitness experts do not believe that “running on empty” is the most efficient way to work out. Contrary to popular belief, working out on an empty stomach does not jumpstart your metabolism. After approximately 30 minutes of exercising without eating first, the body starts to use muscle as an energy source, which can lead to overexertion, dizziness, and dehydration. Also, exercising on an empty stomach lowers your blood sugar which leads to hunger, and people are then more likely to end up eating more after the workout than they would otherwise. Finally, weight training requires a lot of energy, and lifting weights without eating first does not work your muscles efficiently.


A study conducted by Maffucci and McCurry examined the exercise performance of eight female subjects three and six hours after eating a meal. Results showed that performance in moderate- to high-intensity workouts was improved by eating a high-carbohydrate, low-fat, low-protein meal three hours prior to exercising, as compared to performance after consuming the same meal six hours beforehand.


A study published in the 1999 Journal of Medicine and Science in Sports and Exercise found that people who ate a 400 calorie meal (breakfast) three hours before they exercised, were able to bike for approximately 30 minutes longer than when they did not eat beforehand.


Similar research has shown that although more fat calories may be burned by exercising on an empty stomach, the total amount of calories burned is comparable to the same workout after eating a light snack. Most importantly, fewer calories may be burned in the long run if you don’t eat before exercising since you may have less stamina and endurance to complete a full workout.


The best snack to have before you exercise is something light (100-300 calories) containing some carbohydrates and protein, such as fruit or yogurt. The more food you eat, the longer it will take for your body to digest, and if you work out too soon after eating you may get a stomach cramp. Some fitness experts suggest eating food in liquid form (like a fruit smoothie) to reduce the risk of getting a cramp while you exercise. Waiting to exercise for at least half an hour after eating will usually accomplish the same result.


Conclusion

Not eating before you work out is generally not supported by the evidence. If there is any benefit, it is likely to be minor. Also, it is important for people with various health conditions, such as diabetes and low blood pressure, to eat before they exercise.


If, however, you find that your workouts are more productive on an empty stomach, there is no reason to change your normal routine. If not, eating a light snack, such as a piece of fruit, before exercising will boost your energy for your workout and allow you to exercise long and hard enough to burn just as much, if not more, calories and fat.

What can I drink at night to lose weight?

Sleep is one of the most important things to keep yourself healthy and happy. A night of restlessness, tossing, and turning will not only leave you exhausted but has also been linked to weight gain.


Even if you've done everything right - the best pillow, a cool bedroom, a spritz of lavender - many of us still struggle to nod off when the lights go out. 


But why? Well, when you're tired, your metabolism slows down so your body uses less energy. A lack of sleep also affects your blood sugar and makes your insulin spike, causes you to feel hungry and decreases the rate at which calories are burned.


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Getting some shut-eye is vital when you are trying to lose weight and while having caffeine or sugar too close to going to bed can keep you awake, there are some bedtime drinks that can actually help you lose weight as well as ensuring you get some much-needed shut-eye.


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BEDTIME DRINKS THAT HELP YOU LOSE WEIGHT WHILE YOU SLEEP 

1. MILK

Everyone has heard the term to 'sleep like a baby'. Well, some schools of thought suggest that newborns sleep so deeply because of drinking warm milk before they go to bed.


 


A glass of milk (heating optional) can help you to a peaceful night because it's full of calcium and tryptophan. Reportedly, calcium helps the brain to use the amino acid tryptophan to create the substance melatonin, which is well known for inducing sleep. Getting a full eight hours will ward off cravings the next day. Vegan? Try a fortified plant-based option.


2. TURMERIC LATTE


If you want to give your milky drink a boost, why not whip up a turmeric latte? "Turmeric is anti-inflammatory and nourishing. Research has shown that one of its key components, curcumin, plays a role in suppressing fat tissue growth and regulating sugar levels. Enhanced insulin sensitivity thus results in less fat being retained in the body," says Louisa Birkhahn, founder of wellness brand Matcha Union. 


WERBUNG



She recommends the following recipe: Add one tsp of turmeric powder to warmed milk along with a dash of spices of your choice such as black pepper (helps absorption of turmeric) and cinnamon (adds sweetness and regulates blood sugar) and/or ginger (anti bacterial) and sweeten to your liking using a natural sweetener.


3. CHAMOMILE TEA

This caffeine-free drink will leave you feeling calm and is famous for its sleep inducing qualities. A mug of this will increase your body's levels of glycine, a neurotransmitter that not only acts as a mild sedative but also relaxes you too. 


It has also been linked to improving glucose control, which aids weight loss. Stay away from any detox teas and have a cup of this instead.


4. GRAPE JUICE


A small glass of 100% grape juice before bed can help you burn fat as you dream. Research suggests eating or drinking simple carbs, which are found in grape juice, causes insulin secretion at night.


Insulation regulates the body's circadian rhythms. Plus, grapes are packed with antioxidants which convert calories storing white fat, into calorie burning brown fat.


5. SOY PROTEIN SHAKE

You may think protein shakes are just for weight-lifters in the gym, but actually soy in milk or protein power form is brimming with the amino acid tryptophan. Tryptophan can also help to decrease cortisol levels which helps fight fat. 


Even though metabolism slows down when you sleep, it still keeps working, and your protein shake will be digested and absorbed as you're nodding off.


6. KEFIR

This is a probiotic-rich drink made from fermented milk. It works on your gut to increase healthy bacteria levels which aids digestion and absorption of vitamins and minerals. 


The yoghurt-like drink also helps to improve your sleep and enhance your exercise performance.


7. CAROB AND LAVENDER INFUSION

"Carob is rich in tannins that help combat toxins in the gut. This aids the growth of good bacteria that helps improve digestion. Extracts from lavender flowers have been found to increase the duration of slow and deep wave sleep," says Dr Nitasha Buldeo, Ayurvedic Practitioner, Medical Expert and Founder of Organic Apoteke.


Continuing she adds, "This type of sleep enables the body to heal most effectively. For a homemade brew, we suggest either Organic Apoteke's Nourishing Night Tea or steeping carob (you can find it in powder form) and lavender flowers in hot water for 6-10 minutes. Strain this, add a dash of sweetener and enjoy before bed."


Still thirsty for more nutrition-packed drink ideas? Why not try these 5 healthy drinks to help regulate your mood?


Sweet dreams...


What essential oil helps you lose weight?

Essential oils are naturally occurring, rapidly evaporating or volatile aromatic (fragrant or sweet smelling) compounds that are extracted from the bark, leaves, stems, roots, flowers, and other parts of plants. Essential oils are concentrated oils and possess the odor and other characteristic properties of the plant.


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They are used chiefly in the manufacture of perfumes, cosmetics, and medicines. Aromatherapy is the art of utilizing essential oils to balance, harmonize and promote healing of the physical and mental health of an individual.


Essential oils are gaining popularity as an alternative, safe and effective way to treat a wide variety of health conditions, including weight reduction.



 

Essential oils have been in use since ancient times. Essential oils such as lemon, orange, lavender, rose were found helpful in relieving anxiety, stress, and depression, whereas those from ginger, grapefruit, cinnamon helped in curbing appetite, improving digestion, and losing weight. Usually a few drops of essential oil are added to a carrier oil such as sweet almond oil, coconut oil, olive oil before usage. Essential oils for weight loss work by suppressing appetite or increasing the body’s rate of metabolism or a combination of both.


The essential oils have an effect on the limbic system (structures in the brain that deal with emotions, memories, appetite, sleep and dreams). Also, our sense of smell has an incredibly powerful impact on our feelings. Just imagining the aroma of coffee or the sweet smell of flowers quickly peps up our mood. Human body can distinguish about 10,000 different scents. Various essential oils provide specific effects such as:


Mental and physical relaxation

Curb appetite

Enhance the mood

Stress relief and promote well-being

Improve blood and lymph circulation

Strengthen immunity

Essential oils can be used singularly or can be blended together to achieve maximum benefit.


Effects of Essential Oil

Top 5 Essential Oils for Weight Loss

Five essential oils are explained, along with a healthy, nutrient-rich diet and daily physical activity, that will add the extra punch which is needed to lose weight.


1. Grapefruit Essential Oil:


It is one of the most effective essential oils used for weight control. Studies have found that a 15 minute exposure to grapefruit oil three times a week reduces appetite and body weight.

Bedtime Drink To Lose Belly Fat | Lose 1Kg In 2 Days | Bedtime Drink For Weight Loss



It suppresses the appetite, lowers cravings and hunger, as a result of which the stomach is easily satiated.

It contains a compound D-limonene, which helps to increase metabolism and break down body fat.

It supports the cleansing and improves drainage of the lymphatic system which carries nutrients between the tissues and the bloodstream. This reduces cellulite and prevents bloating.

It is also used as detox to cleanse the body of toxins. It also reduces water retention.

Grapefruit Essential Oil

2. Lemon Essential Oil:


Like grape fruit oil, it also boosts metabolism while suppressing appetite. It also improves digestive health.

Helps to reduce stress. The tendency to overeat has a lot to do with stress levels. When we are under stress, our bodies release a variety of hormones that favor the storage of fat in the body leading to significant weight gain.

As in grapefruit, lemon essential oil also contains the compound limonene which increases the body’s ability to burn fat.

The high vitamin C content boosts collagen formation, firmness in muscles, fights infections, inhibits bacterial and viral growth, stops hemorrhages and increases elimination of toxins from body.

It improves energy levels.

Reduces depression and uplifts mood.

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3. Cinnamon Essential Oil:


It helps regulate blood sugar and insulin levels, thereby aiding weight loss and reducing sugar cravings. When blood sugar levels are unstable, a person tends to overeat and gain weight. When there is too much sugar in the blood, the body increases the release of insulin to get sugar molecules into the cells. If the cells already have enough sugar for fuel, they cannot accept any additional sugar. Hence, insulin has to convert these excess sugar molecules into fat which is stored in the body.


It reduces the risk of heart disease and inflammation, improves blood circulation.

It helps to suppress appetite and boost metabolism.

It reduces food cravings and improves digestion.

Cinnamon Essential Oil

4. Ginger Essential Oil:


Supports digestion and the absorption of nutrients.

A key compound in ginger oil, called gingerol, effectively reduces inflammation in the body and improves absorption of the vitamins and minerals.

Reduces sugar cravings.

Eliminates flatulence and helps to clear bowels.

Promotes sweating, which helps remove toxins from the body.

Improves brain and memory function.

5. Peppermint Essential Oil:


A natural energizer that boosts energy levels, reduces fatigue and helps the mind to focus.

It curbs hunger pangs and can help to feel full faster.

Improves the functioning of the digestive system and soothes upset stomach.

The cooling sensation felt when used topically, provides pain relief, increases mental alertness, and promotes a more positive outlook on life.

Helps to manage stress. This helps avoid the temptation of overeating when a person is under stress.

It is rich in omega 3 fatty acids, Vitamin C, iron, potassium, magnesium which are essential for the promotion of good health and for improving the metabolic processes of the body.

Peppermint Essential Oil

How to Use Essential Oils for Weight Loss

Essential oils are used topically, inhaled, or ingested. Sometimes combinations of delivery methods are used.


Topical application:


Essential oils can be applied or massaged onto the skin. The active chemicals in essential oils are absorbed into the blood stream. The essential oil should be massaged for at least 30 minutes directly where fat or cellulite accumulates. This will help the body to eliminate toxins and waste materials stored in fat cells.


The essential oil can also be added to bath water and used as a body soak for at least 20 minutes to achieve the best results.



 

Essential oils are mostly applied to the skin along with a carrier oil such as coconut, sweet almond or olive oil, or as an ingredient in lotions and other beauty products.


Inhalation:


When essential oils are inhaled the aromatic molecules travel through the nasal passage and chemically interact with the brain. They can change the mood, energy, and even appetite. Essential oils for weight loss work by suppressing the appetite or increasing the body’s rate of metabolism, or even a combination of both, since the part of brain that processes smell is the same that controls feelings of hunger and fullness.


Essential oils can be inhaled directly from the bottle, or by adding a few drops to a cotton ball or a fabric and slowly breathing in the vapors before a meal reduces appetite and helps to avoid overeating.


Ingestion:


This is a controversial use of essential oils. One or two drops of essential oil are added to 200 ml of water, tea, salad dressing or a smoothie for the best results. It is best to drink it in the morning after waking up or before breakfast. This helps set the metabolism on the right track.


References:

The effects of the inhalation method using essential oils on blood pressure and stress responses of clients with essential hypertension -

(https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/17211115)

Exploring Aromatherapy -

(http://naha.org/explore-aromatherapy/about-aromatherapy/what-are-essential-oils/)

Relaxation effects of lavender aromatherapy improve coronary flow velocity reserve in healthy men evaluated by transthoracic Doppler echocardiography. -

(https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/17689755)

Published on Jul 28, 2017

Last Updated on Mar 31, 2021


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How long does grapefruit juice stay in your system?

Background: Grapefruit juice is a potent inhibitor of CYP3A4-mediated drug metabolism. We wanted to investigate how long the inhibitory effect of grapefruit juice lasts, with the CYP3A4 substrate simvastatin used as a model drug.


Methods: This crossover study consisted of 5 study days, during which 10 healthy volunteers ingested 40 mg simvastatin with water (control), with "high-dose" grapefruit juice (200 mL double-strength grapefruit juice three times a day for 3 days), or 1, 3, and 7 days after ingestion of "high-dose" grapefruit juice. For safety reasons, the study was performed in three parts to allow simvastatin-free days between the study days. Serum concentrations of simvastatin and simvastatin acid were measured by liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry up to 12 hours.


Results: When simvastatin was taken with grapefruit juice, the mean peak serum concentration (Cmax) and the mean area under the serum concentration-time curve [AUC(0-infinity)] of simvastatin were increased 12.0-fold (P < .001) and 13.5-fold (P < .001), respectively, compared with control. When simvastatin was administered 24 hours after ingestion of the last dose of grapefruit juice, the Cmax and AUC(0-infinity) were increased 2.4-fold (P < .01) and 2.1-fold (P < .001), respectively, compared with control. When simvastatin was given 3 days after ingestion of grapefruit juice, the Cmax and AUC(0-infinity) were increased 1.5-fold (P = .12) and 1.4-fold (P = .09), respectively, compared with control. Seven days after ingestion of grapefruit juice, no differences in the Cmax or AUC(0-infinity) of simvastatin were seen. The mean Cmax and AUC(0-infinity) of simvastatin acid were increased 5.0-fold and 4.5-fold, respectively (P < .001), compared with control when simvastatin was taken with grapefruit juice and 1.7-fold (P < .01) when it was taken 24 hours after ingestion of grapefruit juice. After an interval of 3 or 7 days between ingestion of grapefruit juice and simvastatin, the pharmacokinetic variables of simvastatin acid did not differ significantly from those in the control phase.


Conclusions: When simvastatin is taken 24 hours after ingestion of "high-dose" grapefruit juice, the effect of grapefruit juice on the AUC of simvastatin is only about 10% of the effect observed during concomitant intake of grapefruit juice and simvastatin. The interaction potential of even high amounts of grapefruit juice with CYP3A4 substrates dissipates within 3 to 7 days after ingestion of the last dose of grapefruit juice.


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Grapefruit juice-simvastatin interaction: effect on serum concentrations of simvastatin, simvastatin acid, and HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors.

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Publication types

Clinical Trial

Controlled Clinical Trial

Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

Administration, Oral

Adult

Analysis of Variance

Area Under Curve

Beverages

Citrus*

Cross-Over Studies

Cytochrome P-450 CYP3A

Cytochrome P-450 Enzyme System / metabolism*

Drug Administration Schedule

Female

Food-Drug Interactions

Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry

Humans

Hydroxymethylglutaryl-CoA Reductase Inhibitors / administration & dosage

Hydroxymethylglutaryl-CoA Reductase Inhibitors / blood

Hydroxymethylglutaryl-CoA Reductase Inhibitors / pharmacokinetics*

Hypolipidemic Agents / pharmacokinetics

Male

Mixed Function Oxygenases / metabolism*

Reference Values

Simvastatin / administration & dosage

Simvastatin / blood

Simvastatin / pharmacokinetics*

Time Factors

Substances

Hydroxymethylglutaryl-CoA Reductase Inhibitors

Hypolipidemic Agents

Cytochrome P-450 Enzyme System

Simvastatin

Mixed Function Oxygenases

CYP3A protein, human

Cytochrome P-450 CYP3A

CYP3A4 protein, human

Related information

PubChem Compound (MeSH Keyword)

LinkOut - more resources

Full Text Sources

Ovid Technologies, Inc.

Wiley

Other Literature Sources

Bio-101 Improve Research Reproducibility

Medical

MedlinePlus Health Information

Is Ruby Grapefruit Juice Good for You?

The plump, juicy and sweet-tart flavored giant citrus fruit misnamed grapefruit is an amazingly refreshing and energizing fruit you should have for breakfast to keep you going all day long. The good news is, it is not only tasty and rejuvenating, it is also terrifically healthy. ?What is even better is that Florida grapefruit put the zing and zest in Christmas since the grapefruit season is from November to May.

Drink A Glass Of Grapefruit Juice Every Morning, THIS Will Happen To Your Body!



Types of Grapefruits


There are a few varieties of grapefruits to choose from with skin colors ranging from gold to green, to yellow to blood red, with a full gamut of flavors inside each wonderful variety.


White Grapefruit ? White grapefruit, also called yellow grapefruit, is the acidic and least sweet grapefruit of all the varieties available in the market. It has an intense, zesty aroma.

Oro Blanco ? known as ?white gold? Oro Blanco is a sweet grapefruit that is a cross between a white grapefruit and pomelo. It has bright green to vivid yellow thick rind and sweet flesh that is minimally bitter.

Pink – pink grapefruit has sweet, mildly tangy fruit that is great for juicing. It falls between the red and white grapefruits when it comes to color and taste complexity.

Red Grapefruit ? Red grapefruit is a natural or radiation induced mutation of white/pink fleshed grapefruit.? Red grapefruits are sweet, juicy and have pink flesh that ranges from bright red to deep crimson red.

Ruby Red Grapefruits


The ruby red grapefruit is a base-ball sized fruit with cheery-yellow rind tinged with pink blush. The flesh is bright-red and is sweet and juicy. The ruby grapefruit is great eaten fresh but can also be used to make juice, smoothie, salad and seafood recipe.


Health Fact


Ruby red grapefruit has many health benefits; it can help rehydrate the body due to its high water content, may speed weight loss, has hefty dose of vitamins A and C that can help boost the immune system and help control blood sugar.


Now the main question is ?Can it help lower blood pressure??


The answer is yes! Ruby red grapefruit can help to naturally lower blood pressure.


An international study, with results published in an article in the 2006 issue of ?Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry,? stated that red grapefruit?s blend of antioxidant-rich vitamins and carotenoids are effective in lowering triglyceride levels and LDL cholesterol levels, and at the same time stimulating anti-oxidant activity in the bloodstream.

Red grapefruits also contain high potassium levels that help neutralize the negative effects of sodium.

These translate to blood flowing freely and easily to and from our vital organs, naturally lowering our blood pressure.


Take note though, if you are taking blood pressure medication it is best to consult your doctor before adding grapefruit to your daily diet since a certain enzyme in grapefruit juice breaks down certain medications much faster and nix the effectiveness of the medicine you are taking; for some it causes them to absorb the medicine faster while for some they absorb less of the medicine.

How much grapefruit juice should you drink daily?

Grapefruit can seem like an acquired taste. Their bulbous size, bitter pith (the white stuff that surrounds the fruit), and tart taste can be off-putting to those who are more accustomed to their sweeter citrus cousins.


But it might do your health some good if you consider adding this superfood to your regular rotation of healthy foods. It's among the 20 best foods to eat for breakfast. And you don't have to limit your intake to the early morning hours: Grapefruit are supremely portable and make a great snack (with very few calories) that fills you up while also relieving thirst due to its high water content.


Here, experts weigh in on why you should start buying more of the tangy citrus fruit, due to its health benefits.



 Raw Kale, Grapefruit, and Toasted Hazelnut Salad

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Grapefruit contains a lot of water

They're hydrating

GETTY IMAGES

At about 92% water, grapefruit has one of the highest water contents of any fruit. That makes it good for overall health.


"All of our body systems and process . . . require water," Wesley Delbridge, RD, a Phoenix-based dietitian, tells Health. "Proper hydration makes your body more efficient in everything you're doing."


About 20% of your daily fluid intake actually comes from food. So add some grapefruit to get closer to your daily H2O goal and choose the heavier of two fruits of equal size: It has more juice.



 Grapefruit and Avocado Salad With Seared Salmon

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Grapefruit may speed weight loss

grapefruit-weight-loss-speedy

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Several studies have shown that people who eat half a fresh grapefruit or drink grapefruit juice before each meal lose more weight than people who do not.


Not all studies have shown the same weight-loss benefit and scientists don't know if the effect seen in the studies was specifically due to grapefruit—or filling up on a low-calorie food in general—but fruits and vegetables should always be part of your strategy to lose or maintain weight.


What is 100% ironclad fact: Grapefruit delivers a lot of nutrition and water for very few calories: there are just 39 calories in one half of a grapefruit. So it's a great choice if you want to boost your intake of high nutrient, low calorie foods.



 Can Grapefruit Really Make You Slim?

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Even the pith is good for you

grapefruit-pith-good

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When you peel away the outer layer of a grapefruit, you may be tempted to pick off the white flesh that is between you and the juicy fruit, and throw it away. This stuff is called pith. Don't do it.


"That [pith] is very rich in antioxidants and nutrients and also soluble fiber which is going to help you feel fuller and impact your glucose reactions," says Delbridge.


While the pith of grapefruit can have more of a bitter taste than say, oranges, it's worth eating along with the fruit (if you can). Fiber is a good thing, and can help lower blood sugar, cholesterol, and possibly even colon cancer risk.



 The Grapefruit Diet

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Grapefruit can help lower "bad" cholesterol

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A grapefruit a day may help lower "bad" LDL cholesterol levels by as much as 15.5%, according to a 2006 study in the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry. In the study, researchers looked at 57 patients ages 39 to 72 who had high cholesterol and had undergone bypass surgery for heart trouble. For one month, some ate a grapefruit daily (either red or white) while others, the control group, did not. Grapefruit eaters, particularly those eating red, had a drop in bad cholesterol, while the control group did not.


This is great news for your heart. LDL cholesterol is a type of fat that can build up in your arteries and raise the risk for heart attack and stroke. But if you are taking a cholesterol-lowering drug, don't add a grapefruit for extra effect—the FDA issued a warning in 2012 about interactions with such medications.



 Beyond Guacamole: Vitamin-Rich Grapefruit-Avocado Salad

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Grapefruit may help pump up your immune system

grapefruit-immune-system

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That's because of the hefty dose of vitamins A and C in each serving. "Vitamin C and A are huge as far as immune boosting," says Delbridge.


Some research indicates that not having enough vitamin C (and other micronutrients) may actually hurt your immune system, especially if you're elderly.


Grapefruit may not prevent a cold but the vitamins inside may reduce your suffering or possibly the duration of a cold.


"There's nothing else you can do for a cold so why not?" says Ann Marie Chiasson, MD, assistant director of the Fellowship in Integrative Medicine at the University of Arizona College of Medicine in Tucson.



 6 Foods to Eat to Help Prevent the Flu

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Grapefruit can lower triglyceride levels

grapefruit-triglycerides

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There's another reason grapefruit can be good for your heart: It reduces levels of triglycerides, another type of fat—like "bad" LDL cholesterol—which can quickly clog up your arteries.


The same study that found that adding one grapefruit a day lowered cholesterol levels also found that this simple daily regimen lowered triglycerides—by as much as 27%. This was in patients who already had coronary artery disease and so were at high risk for heart attacks and other complications.


Red grapefruit, in particular, surpassed its "blond" cousins in lowering triglycerides.



 Eat This to Lower Cancer Risks

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Grapefruit can lower blood pressure

grapefruit-blood-pressure

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"Grapefruit has got some data that it decreases systolic blood pressure, not by a lot—it's usually about five points—but there's definitely good data," says Chiasson. And for the 70 million Americans who have hypertension, any drop in blood pressure is a good drop.


The effect on blood pressure may be due to grapefruit's high potassium levels. Potassium neutralizes the negative effects of sodium. (Here are 15 foods that are high in potassium.)


But again, don't eat grapefruit if you are already taking a blood-pressure lowering drug. Certain ones, such as Procardia and Adalat CC (both are from the generic nifedipine), can be dangerous when combined with grapefruit, according to the FDA.



 Risks and Symptoms of High Blood Pressure

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The redder, the better

grapefruit-color-matters

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All the grapefruit colors are packed with goodness, vitamins, and nutrients but the red and pink ones come with a little extra.


"They have a higher antioxidant level, specifically beta carotene," says Delbridge. "They also have lycopene, another antioxidant."


Lycopene is one of a group of carotenoids or pigments that gives hued grapefruit (and other fruits and vegetables) their color. Eating diets rich in carotenoids may lower the risk of heart disease and some cancers.


Antioxidants in general may play a key role in preventing cancer.



 12 Ways to Eat More Colorful Fruits and Vegetables

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Grapefruit may help control blood sugar

grapefruit-blood-sugar

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Grapefruit also has a low glycemic index (GI), around 25, which means it doesn't raise blood sugar as quickly or as much as high-GI foods like white bagel (72) or even a banana (48) or watermelon (72). (The highest GI score is 100.)


A 2006 study published in the Journal of Medicinal Food, found that people who ate grapefruit (juice or half a fruit) before a meal had a lower spike in insulin two hours later than those taking a placebo, and fresh grapefruit was associated with less insulin resistance. All 91 patients in the 12-week study were obese, but they did not necessarily have type 2 diabetes.


While the results are promising in those without diabetes, blood-sugar reactions to food can vary widely, so if you have been diagnosed with type 2 diabetes, test your blood sugar after eating grapefruit to make sure it can be part of your healthy eating plan.



 7 Ways to Make Blood-Sugar Testing Less Painful

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The fruit is better than the juice

grapefruit-juice-good-fruit-better

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Grapefruit juice has plenty of benefits, but the traditional fruit itself is going to give you more bang for your buck when it comes to nutrition and health benefits.


"When you take juice, you're getting some of the nutrients but you're losing all the fiber," says Delbridge. "Grapefruit juice is great but at the end of the day, the entire fruit has pectin and rind and all the parts of it."


Grapefruit juice can also spike your blood sugar more than the fruit itself. If you opt for juice of any kind, Delbridge recommends not drinking more than 6 ounces a day and going only for 100% juice products that don't have added sugar.



 Bethenny's Pink Grapefruit Spritzer

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Grapefruit may speed wound healing

grapefruit-speedy-healing

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Vitamin C helps form healthy scar tissue and new blood vessels, both of which help return your body to a healthy state. A grapefruit contains about 72 mg of vitamin C, which is 120% of the daily value.


"Vitamin C speeds up wound healing post surgically," says Chiasson. "I tell people to take 500 milligrams of vitamin C before they go into surgery."

Grapefruit, Carrot, and Ginger Juice- Healthy Appetite with Shira Bocar



Always ask your doctor before adding vitamins, minerals, or any herbal supplements to your daily regimen, especially if you're about to have surgery. In this case, that goes for grapefruit too, given its ability to affect the metabolism of certain drugs.



 The Healing Power of Tea

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Grapefruit may even help prevent cancer

grapefruit-prevents-cancer

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A large study conducted in Japan found that people who ate citrus (including grapefruit) throughout the week had a lower risk of developing cancer, especially prostate and pancreatic, compared with the total group of participants.


The effect was amplified among those who also drank a lot green tea.


The authors speculate that compounds in citrus fruits reduce inflammation and stop cancer cells from multiplying. They may also help repair damaged DNA, which contributes to the development of tumors.


The fiber in grapefruit may also help prevent colorectal cancer while fruits high in vitamin C and beta-carotene, which is in pink and red grapefruit, may lower the risk of esophageal cancer.



 6 Foods to Eat to Help Prevent the Flu

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They can be stored in your fridge, or on the shelf

grapefruit-room-temperature

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Grapefruit can be stored in your fridge for as long as three weeks but they release their best flavor when kept at room temperature. If you plan to eat them within a week, leave them on a counter or table.


There's an added advantage to keeping them in plain view.


"The increased visibility helps you remind yourself that you need to eat them," says Delbridge. "Studies show that when you put fruits and vegetables out in a bowl or common area of the house, you will eat more."


If you don't think you will eat the grapefruit for 2 or 3 weeks, tuck them in the fridge but make sure they're at room temperature before you actually dig in. This will give you maximum flavor.



 Pink Grapefruit Cupcakes

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You can make a meal out of grapefruit

grapefruit-main-course

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Grapefruit is most often associated with breakfast, but don't let that limit your imagination.


Grapefruit is also super in salads and with fish or chicken. In fact, it's best when paired with protein and a little fat, like a handful of walnuts.


"If it's paired with proteins and fats, it will delay your gastric emptying so you'll feel full longer," says Delbridge. The fiber, too, keeps you feeling fuller longer.



 Grapefruit Elderflower Cooler

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Grapefruit may have more vitamin A than an orange

They're good for your heart

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One-half of one grapefruit contains 28% of your daily value of vitamin A (based on a 2000-calorie daily intake), or far more than the 4% in oranges, says Delbridge. This first vitamin in the alphabet is good for your eyes, not to mention your heart, lungs, kidneys and other organs.


What's more, you also get 64% of your vitamin C, 8% of your fiber, a bit of calcium (3%) and iron (1%), and you start to understand why it's called a superfood. (For more comparisons, read "12 Foods That Have More Vitamin C Than an Orange.") Why eat a half a grapefruit when you can eat a whole one?



 9 Healthy Salad Dressing Recipes

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You can drink it in beer form

grapefruit-beer

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If you find the fruit itself to be too tart, try a grapefruit-flavored beverage: There are a bevy of products—including grapefruit-flavored beer—that might be more palatable to you.


Because citrus pairs well with beer, there are plenty of orange and lemon flavored beers, but grapefruit is the a newer flavor in the brewing world: A few examples include Pink Fuzz, Grapefruit Shandy, and Turtle Power Grapefruit Pale Ale.



 How to Make an Immune Booster Juice

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The scent alone can give you a boost

They’re packed with potassium

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Citrus scents are becoming more popular in aromatherapy for a reason. "Citrus is really amazing for increased energy and vitality," says Chiasson. "It will wake people up."


Not all aromatherapy is inhaled. You can also rub an essential oil on your skin, which allows you to feel it and inhale it at the same time. Grapefruit aromatherapy may even act as a natural skin toner, says Chiasson.

Is grapefruit juice hard on the liver?

Five superfoods for your liver

As the human body’s largest organ, the liver has some pretty important functions – 500 of them, to be exact. It makes bile to help break down food, stores nutrients and vitamins and fights infections and disease, to name three. With such a heavy workload, it’s no surprise the liver needs a lot of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants to keep itself going. The good news is by eating and drinking certain foods we can ensure it gets them. Here are five of our top suggestions: 


Cruciferous veges 

Veges such as broccoli, cauliflower, brussels sprouts, cabbage and kale contain glutathione, which kickstarts the liver’s toxin cleansing enzymes of the liver. Eating them will increase production of glucosinolate in your system, which helps flush out carcinogens and other toxins. 


Olive oil 

Yes, it's a fat, but it’s generally considered a healthy one. It has been shown to decrease the levels of fat in the liver. Other cold-pressed organic oils such as hemp and flaxseed have similar benefits. 


Green tea 

Evidence has shown that it may have benefits for the liver. A study based in Japan* found that drinking 5-10 cups of green tea a day can lead to improved blood markers of liver health, thanks to  the catechin (a plant antioxidant) it contains. Green tea is packed full of this plant antioxidant.  


Citrus fruit

Citrus fruits stimulate the liver and help it turns toxic materials into substances that can be absorbed by water. Grapefruit is especially good as it contains naringin and naringenin, which are antioxidants that reduce inflammation to protect the liver from injury. Grapefruit can, however, interact with some medications, so it's recommended you talk to your doctor if you have concerns.  


Citrus fruits are also packed with vitamin C, so they’re great for keeping colds at bay. 


Garlic 

Garlic is full of sulphur, which activates liver enzymes that help your body flush out toxins. It also has a lot of selenium, a vital micronutrient that helps boost the natural antioxidant enzyme levels in our livers.  

Is grapefruit hard on kidneys?

Although grapefruit does have some health benefits, there are also risks to including it in your diet. Grapefruit has developed a bad reputation due to the following:


Drug interactions: Grapefruit juice can affect drug metabolism and dampen their effects or even worsen side effects. Grapefruit can interfere with the enzyme and transporter mechanism involved in the breakdown or absorption of drugs from the gut, causing too high or too low amounts of drugs in the body. Avoid consuming grapefruit when taking medications such as statins, calcium channel blockers, blood pressure medications, and psychiatric drugs.

High in potassium: Grapefruit contains high levels of potassium, meaning people with kidney infections should approach with caution. Their kidneys may not be able to filter out excess potassium, which can be life-threatening for such individuals.

Highly acidic: As grapefruit is highly acidic, it can worsen symptoms of heartburn and regurgitation in people with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).


What is the nutritional value of grapefruit?

Grapefruit has a low glycemic index and is commonly consumed as part of a balanced breakfast. The nutritional value of the fruit is as follows:


60 calories

100% or more of daily vitamin C requirements

Vitamin A

Potassium

Folate

Thiamin

Niacin 

Magnesium

Fiber

Phytochemicals such as lycopene

Calcium (especially in calcium-fortified grapefruit juice)


5 health benefits of grapefruit

Healthy people who are not taking medications may benefit from regular consumption of grapefruit, as it is rich in essential nutrients:


Boosts immune system: Grapefruit is loaded with vitamin A, vitamin C, zinc, and copper, which help boost the immune system. Antioxidant properties protect cells from harmful bacteria and viruses and  may help prevent respiratory infections or reduce the duration of illness.

Promotes heart health: Eating grapefruit regularly can help lower cholesterol levels, particularly serum triglycerides, which in turn can help prevent clogged arteries. Antioxidant properties of phenolics also inhibit the oxidation of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol and help prevent coronary atherosclerosis.

Improves blood sugar levels: Since grapefruit has a low glycemic index, it is a safer carb option for people with diabetes. Moreover, the plant chemical Naringin present in grapefruit and grapefruit juice has the potential to improve insulin sensitivity. Consuming grapefruit can thus help better control blood sugar levels and reduce the risk of type II diabetes.

Helps with weight loss: Grapefruit contains fiber, which helps you feel full for longer and reduce cravings. Fiber slows the rate at which the body digests food, thereby reducing the risk of overeating or snacking. 

Reduces the risk of kidney stones: Eating grapefruit may help prevent calcium buildup and formation of kidney stones. Citric acid in grapefruit can bind with excess calcium and help flush it out of the body. Citric acid also increases the volume and pH of the urine, making the environment less favorable for kidney stones to form.

How much sleep do u need to lose weight?

To get into a good sleep routine, a person can start by figuring out exactly how much sleep they need. Then, they can determine when they should be going to bed and waking up for optimal health.


Experts believe that sleep is just as important to a person’s health as food and water. Getting the right amount of sleep can help prevent disease, boost immunity, and improve mental health.


Still, many of us are not getting enough sleep. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)Trusted Source estimate that about one-third of adults consistently do not get the sleep that they need.


Building a healthy sleep pattern may require tweaking the schedule or lifestyle. While this can be challenging at first, the benefits of proper sleep are worth the effort.


How much should you sleep?

A person’s age can affect the amount of sleep that they need.

Though there are general guidelines, some people need more sleep than others, due to their lifestyle, any health conditions, and their genetic makeup.


The National Sleep Foundation (NSF) recommend that people of different ages get the following amounts of sleep every 24 hours:


newborns (0–3 months): 14–17 hours

infants (4–11 months): 12–15 hours

toddlers (1–2 years): 11–14 hours

preschoolers (3–5 years): 10–13 hours

school-age children (6–13 years): 9–11 hours

teenagers (14–17 years): 8–10 hours

younger adults (18–25 years): 7–9 hours

adults (26–64 years): 7–9 hours

older adults (65 years and above): 7–8 hours


How to get the right amount

The following chart can help a person figure out when they need to be going to bed to get 8 hours of sleep a night.


The NSF report that, on average, people take 10–20 minutes to fall asleep. The calculations below assume that a person needs 15 minutes, but if someone tends to take longer, they should adjust their bedtime accordingly.


Wake-up time Bedtime (to get 8 hours of sleep):

4:00 a.m. 7:45 p.m.

4:30 a.m. 8:15 p.m.

5:00 a.m. 8:45 p.m.

5:30 a.m. 9:15 p.m.

6:00 a.m. 9:45 p.m.

6:30 a.m. 10:15 p.m.

7:00 a.m. 10:45 p.m.

7:30 a.m. 11:15 p.m.

8:00 a.m. 11:45 p.m.

8:30 a.m. 12:15 a.m.

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Sleep cycles

To be properly rested, the body must go through several sleep cycles per night, including rapid eye movement (REM) sleep and non-REM sleep.


The stages of sleep include:


Stage 1 non-REM: This lasts for only a few minutes. Breathing, heart rate, and brain waves begin to slow.

Stage 2 non-REM: This stage occurs before the body enters deep sleep. The muscles relax even more, and body temperature drops.

Stage 3 non-REM: A person needs to reach this stage of deep sleep to feel rested, and it lasts longer in the first half of the night. Breathing and heart rate slow to their lowest levels.

REM sleep: Within 90 minutes of falling asleep, a person enters REM sleep. The brain becomes more active, the most dreaming occurs, and the arms and legs become temporarily paralyzed.

If the body does not go through these stages several times a night, the person may wake feeling fatigued and unfocused.



WERBUNG


Sleep and weight loss

Recent research suggests that a lack of sleep could make a person more likely to gain weight.


A review of 30 studiesTrusted Source, for example, found a connection between less sleep and weight gain in children and adults. Another study foundTrusted Source that nurses who slept 5 hours or fewer were more likely to have obesity than those who slept 7 hours on average.


A possible reason for the association is that being tired may change the brain in a way that leads to excess eating.


Meanwhile, one study found that lack of sleep was linked to more emotional eating and trouble managing weight.


Results of anotherTrusted Source indicated that getting only 4.5 hours of sleep increased hunger and appetite in study participants. Those who got 8.5 hours of sleep did not have this issue.


Overall, it is likely a good idea for anyone looking to lose weight to aim for 7–9 hours of sleep per night.


Sleep and health conditions

Getting enough sleep may help prevent certain health conditions.


The National Heart, Lung, and Blood InstituteTrusted Source say that sleep deprivation can increase the risk of heart disease, diabetes, kidney disease, and depression. Lack of sleep may also increase a person’s risk of injury.


Meanwhile, getting too much sleep might not be healthful either. One study found that, while getting too little sleep increased the risk of developing type 2 diabetes, getting more than 8 hours a night elevated this risk even more.



How to get better sleep

Getting quality sleep sometimes requires only simple tweaks in a routine. Other times, a person may need to put sleep ahead of other activities.


Here are some ways to improve the quality and quantity of sleep:


Be consistent: Going to bed and waking up at the same times every day helps the body develop a rhythm, which may make it easier to fall asleep and wake up feeling rested.

Get exercise each day: Exercise may improve sleep quality and help people who have chronic insomnia.

Avoid caffeine and nicotine: Avoid these stimulants later in the day, as both can take several hours or longer to leave the bloodstream, potentially interfering with sleep.

Drown out sound and light: Using earplugs, a white noise machine, and room-darkening curtains or window treatments can help. Various white noise machines are available for purchase online.

Turn off TVs, smartphones, and tablets at least 2 hours before bed: The blue light that these devices can emit can suppress melatonin, a hormone necessary for asleep.

Try relaxing alternatives: Instead of looking at screens, try taking a warm bath, reading a book, or meditating.

Find more tips for getting better sleep here.


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When to see a doctor

In many cases, lifestyle adjustments can improve sleep quality and quantity.


However, if these changes are not effective, see a doctor. Underlying health conditions, certain medications, and other factors can interfere with quality sleep.


If a person frequently has trouble sleeping, they may want to ask their doctor about a sleep study. This can help identify sleep disorders.


Summary

Sleep is vital to health — being well-rested can help people lose weight and prevent certain health conditions.


To get the recommended 7–9 hours each night, it is important to get to bed at the right time, which may involve rearranging a routine. For many people, this can make a big difference.


If a person has tried various recommendations and strategies and exhaustion or trouble sleeping persists, they should see a doctor.

Which morning drink is best for weight loss?

You might have heard many times that you should hydrate yourself in the morning and what’s a better way than drinking detox morning drinks! Detox drinks help the body get started and are very beneficial for skin health also. The best part is that detox drinks also help manage weight and are incredibly flavorful at the same time! You must be wondering what precisely a detox drink is and how it can help you, so let’s clear that doubt first before moving ahead about detox morning drinks for weight loss.


Morning Drinks for Weight Loss

Table of Contents

What is a Morning Detox Drink?

A detox drink is basically an infused water and contains many vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. You can add healthy fruits, herbs, and even some spices to water and drink the infused water for health benefits. It flushes out the toxins from your body and keeps you hydrated. It works wonders for the body when you have a nutritious detox drink in the morning. Below is a list of the best weight loss morning drinks that you can easily prepare and enjoy!


15 Detox Morning Drinks for Weight Loss

1. Honey and Lemon Tea

Honey and Lemon Tea

If you wonder what to drink in the morning to lose weight, then your answer is right here! A hot cup of lemon and honey tea can give your burst of flavor and also kick start your morning on a healthy note. They also work well to manage weight and boost metabolism, which is why it tops our list!


Quick tip: Do not add more than 2 teaspoons of honey to your lemon tea.


Also Read : Honey Lemon Water Benefits


2. Cucumber and Mint Detox Water

Cucumber and Mint Detox Water

If you wish to have a refreshing start to the day, this is your drink! The only thing to remember here is that you need to infuse the cucumber and mint in the water at night to get a refreshing and flavorful drink in the morning since it will absorb all the flavors. It’s an excellent natural detox drink and also good for the skin.


A quick tip: Avoid using mint stems to make your detox tea.


3. Lemonade

Lemonade best morning drink for weight loss

Lemonade is everyone’s favorite, and the best part is that it is super easy to make! It’s one of the most famous early morning drinks for weight loss and is trusted by people worldwide. Now when we say lemonade, it means just lemon and water and no sugar/sweetener. So squeeze half a lemon into a glass full of water before your morning run and drink it up!


A quick tip: Prefer having lemonade without sugar. You may add 1 spoon of honey to it.


4. Fresh Fruit Juices

Fresh Fruit Juices

You can get creative with fruit juices, make juice out of your favorite fruit, or even mix a couple of fruits! Fruits and veggies like watermelon, carrot, beetroot, and oranges can make a very healthy and tasty morning drink. It can also be quite filling and nutritious since it contains a lot of essential nutrients and fiber. No one can ever go wrong with a fresh fruit/veggie juice!


A quick tip: Do not add sugar to your fruit juice.


5. Haldi Tea

Haldi Tea early morning drink for weight loss

Haldi tea is a popular detox drink in India, and it has multiple health benefits. It has antibacterial properties, and it also boosts your immunity if consumed regularly. Having a haldi tea in the morning will refresh your senses, and its aroma will make you feel calm so that you hit the day off with tons of positivity.


Quick tip: Let Haldi sit for at least 1-2 minutes in water before consuming.


Also Read : Best Time to Drink Green Tea


6. Ginger Tea

Ginger Tea

Ginger tea is the king of teas when it comes to health benefits. Ginger tea is served hot with a dash of honey, and it works incredibly against bloating and indigestion. This drink speeds metabolism and is a trusted early morning drink for weight loss. You can see the positive results when you start having a cup of ginger tea regularly early in the morning.


Quick tip: Chop ginger finely to make sure the taste is properly infused.


7. Orange and Mint Infused Water

Orange and Mint Infused Water

As the name suggests, it is infused water, which means you need to infuse the ingredients at night to enjoy this morning detox drink for weight loss. It contains the citrusy flavor and the richness of orange with the freshness of mint. It’s a classic morning drink that is tasty and helps remove toxins from the body.


A quick tip: Avoid adding sugar or any artificial sweetener to your water.


8. Apple Cider Vinegar Drink

Apple Cider Vinegar Drink

Apple cider vinegar is a great weight loss agent, and many health experts suggest having an apple cider drink in the morning. It’s effortless to prepare this drink because all you have to do is mix 2 tbsps of apple cider vinegar into a large glass of water. It improves digestion, aids in weight management, and also promotes heart health.


A quick tip: Consume only natural apple cider vinegar. Avoid adding it to any pre-sweetened juice/beverage.


Also Read: How to Use Apple Cider Vinegar for Weight Loss


9. Green Tea

Green Tea

The benefits of green tea are known worldwide, and there is hardly any other tea that can beat this one! Green tea promotes weight loss and speeds metabolism, making it a good morning detox drink for weight loss. It is also packed with antioxidants and has antibacterial properties that can protect the body from infections and keep the immune system healthy!


Quick tip: Green tea should be boiling water only.


10. Amla Juice With Water for Weight Loss

Amla Juice with Water

Amla drinks are included in the list of detox drinks for weight loss. Amla juice cleanses your body, promotes digestion, and is great for clear skin, healthy hair, and better vision. It aids in the slowing of the aging process and is required for collagen creation, keeping your skin, hair, and immune system healthy.


Quick tip: Drink Amla juice before breakfast to start a fresh.


11. Carom Seeds With Water

Carom Seeds With Water

Carom seeds (Ajwain) with water are becoming popular amongst those who want to shed those unwanted extra pounds. Drinking ajwain water on an empty stomach can help in reducing body weight and burning abdominal fat. Consuming one teaspoon of carom seeds with a hot glass of water is known to be a home remedy to lose 4-5 kilogrammes in a month.


Quick tip: Add 1 teaspoon of carom seeds to hot water let it stir for 2-3 minutes before consuming.


Also Read: Types of Masala


12. Ginger With Hot Water

Ginger With Hot Water

Ginger water is frequently used in traditional treatments for problems such as bloating and upset stomachs. It is high in antioxidants, which help your body deal with free radicals and lessen your risk of diseases including cancer, heart disease, and diabetes. Potassium is another mineral found in ginger water. This morning detox drink for weight loss works best when you pair it with a healthy diet and at least 30 mins of exercise.


Quick tip: Let the ginger steep for about 5 to 10 minutes in boiling water before having it.


13. Lemon Water With Chia Seeds

Lemon Water With Chia Seeds

Adding chia seeds to your water to make chia water is one of the simplest ways to incorporate them into your diet. This combination is one of the most popular morning drinks for weight loss. It provides a highly refreshing drink that’s great for drinking first thing in the morning or before or after a workout when your body needs a boost of water. Make a big batch of this lemon water with chia seeds and drink it regularly to keep your stomach happy.


Quick tip: Soak chia seeds for at least 30 minutes before adding them to your lemon water


14. Jeera Water

Jeera Water

Consuming Jeera water in the morning may act as a medicinal water that improves your digestion, helps you stay hydrated, and cures anemia naturally. It is a drink known to be beneficial for weight loss. Besides, detoxifying the body by eliminating toxins and soothing hunger hormones are its other great benefits. Jeera water has thymoquinone which can promote a healthy liver.


Quick tip: Consume this drink early in the morning on an empty stomach.


15. Coriander Seeds with Water

Coriander Seeds with Water

Coriander water may be your best bet right now because it can help you strengthen your immunity. Coriander contains antioxidants that assist to reduce free radical activity. It boosts your defence system while also assisting you in losing weight. This morning detox drink is known to be having positive effects on digestion, thereby increasing the metabolism and assisting weight loss.


Quick tip: Mix a teaspoon of coriander seeds with plain water and drink it first thing in the morning.


This was the list of some of the best morning drinks for weight loss, and we hope that it helps you. These drinks are effortless to prepare and can be given to the whole family. It’s best if you could start drinking a detox drink every morning and slowly make it a habit. It will lead to better health and a better lifestyle. Happy drinking!


FAQs

1. Can we take ajwain water at night?

Ajwain water can improve your digestion and cure gastrointestinal problems. It is better to have this concoction in the morning, on an empty stomach, but consuming this at night is not harmful. Hence, you may take ajwain water at night.


2. Can we drink amla juice anytime

Yes, you can have amla juice at any time of the day, after/before your meals. But, it is best to consume amla juice first thing in the morning. You can dilute 20-30 ml of amla juice in a glass of water. To improve the flavour, add a little lemon juice and honey to the mix.


3. Can we boil jeera water for weight loss?

Yes, you need to boil a spoonful of jeera for 2-3 minutes, in a glass of water, to prepare jeera water for weight loss.

What should I drink first thing in the morning to lose weight?

Weight Loss Tips: Want to start your day with something healthy? Some drinks can help you. You can prepare some simple drinks to kick-start your morning. These drinks will boost your weight loss process at the same time. Read here to know more about these healthy drinks.

HealthWritten by Varsha VatsUpdated: August 28, 2019 3:03 pm IST

Morning Drinks For Weight Loss: Start Your Day With These 5 Healthy Drinks

Weight loss drinks: Some drinks can improve your metabolism and help you lose weight



Weight loss is a result of continuous efforts including restricted diet and proper exercise. But some minor changes can help you boost this process. Is coffee the first thing you drink every morning? Is it the healthiest way to start your day for weight loss? The way you start your day affects your health and energy levels throughout the day. A healthy drink in the morning can impact your health in various ways. What can better than morning drinks which are healthy as well as beneficial for weight loss? Some simple drinks can bring a huge change in your overall health. These drinks also contribute to weight loss at the same time. Here are easy and quick drinks which you can add to your morning rituals for better health and weight loss.

Healthy morning drinks for weight loss

1. Lemon water with chia seeds

Both lemon water and chia seeds are beneficial for weight loss. The combination of these two elements will be amazing for weight loss as well as for your overall health. To prepare this drink you need to take a glass of warm water and add juice of half lemon to it. You can also add a few drops of honey for taste. Add a small amount of chia seed powder to this. Try this drink every morning and avail the multiple health benefits it offers like weight loss, detoxification, a powerhouse of antioxidants and many more.


Also read: Can Chia Seeds Help You Reduce Belly Fat Quickly? Some Proven Health Benefits Of Chia Seeds


2. Green tea

Green tea is famous for the multiple health benefits it offers. Green tea is loaded with antioxidants which protect your body from the risk of various diseases. It is widely used for weight loss. Regular consumption of green tea will also benefit your skin. So, what are you waiting for? Eliminate your morning cup of coffee and switch to green tea.


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Green tea for weight loss: Green tea is loaded with properties beneficial for weight loss and skin

Photo Credit: iStock


3. Apple cider vinegar

Apple cider vinegar is loaded with health benefits. It is a well-known morning drink for weight loss. It can help in killing many harmful bacteria, lowers blood sugar levels and promotes heart health. You need to take half glass of water and add one tablespoon of apple cider vinegar to it. Give it a quick mix and drink this every morning. Do not add apple cider vinegar in extra quantity. Also, try to drink it with a straw to protect your tooth enamel from the acidic content.


Also read: Know The Best Time To Drink Water To Lose Weight


4. Detox water

If you want to lose weight and stay healthy at the same time you can choose detox water. Detox water is an excellent choice which will purify your body and improve your metabolism. You will lose weight at the same time. To prepare detox water you can add cucumber, lemon juice, milt leaves and a slice of ginger to water and store it for some time. Consume it in the morning and throughout the day as well.


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Weight loss drinks: Detox water can help you remove toxins from your body

Photo Credit: iStock


5. Jeera water

Jeera or cumin seeds are extremely beneficial for weight loss. This drink can improve your metabolism significantly. Jeera water will also reduce hunger and improve the fat burning process. Soak one tablespoon of cumin seeds to a glass of water and keep it overnight. Strain the mixture in the morning and consume it every morning. You can also chew some soaked cumin seeds while drinking this water.

How much weight can you lose by eating grapefruit?

The grapefruit diet is apparently not a myth. That's what a new study by the Nutrition and Metabolic Research Center at Scripps Clinic has suggested. Researchers there found that the simple act of adding grapefruit and grapefruit juice to one's diet can result in weight loss.


The 12-week pilot study, led by Dr. Ken Fujioka, monitored weight and metabolic factors, such as insulin secretion, of the 100 men and women who participated in the Scripps Clinic 'Grapefruit Diet' study.


On average, participants who ate half a grapefruit with each meal lost 3.6 pounds, while those who drank a serving of grapefruit juice three times a day lost 3.3 pounds. However, many patients in the study lost more than 10 pounds.


'For years people have talked about the grapefruit diet, and some even swear by it, but now, we have data that grapefruit helps weight loss,' said Dr. Fujioka, principal researcher at the Nutrition and Metabolic Research Center at Scripps Clinic.


'Our study participants maintained their daily eating habits and slightly enhanced their exercise routine; the only dietary change was the intake of Florida grapefruit and grapefruit juice.'


Additionally, the research indicates a physiological link between grapefruit and insulin, as it relates to weight management. The researchers speculate that the chemical properties of grapefruit reduce insulin levels and encourage weight loss.


The importance of this link lies with the hormone's weight management function. While not its primary function, insulin assists with the regulation of fat metabolism.


Therefore, the smaller the insulin spike after a meal, the more efficiently the body processes food for use as energy and the less it's stored as fat in the body. Grapefruit may possess unique chemical properties that reduce insulin levels which promotes weight loss.


Obesity continues to plague the American public and the health system.


According to the National Center for Health Statistics, 64 percent of U.S. adults are considered overweight or obese. Overweight or obese people stand a greater likelihood of developing life-altering and/or life-threatening illnesses such as heart disease, cancer, diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, sleep apnea, arthritis, liver problems, and many others.


'Our study shows grapefruit can play a vital role in overall health and wellness, and in battling America's ever-growing obesity epidemic,' stated Dr. Fujioka.


'Whether it's the properties of grapefruit or its ability to satiate appetites, grapefruit appeared to help with weight loss and decreased insulin levels leading to better health. It's good the 'Grapefruit Diet' never lost its popularity among the public.'


The study linking grapefruit and grapefruit juice consumption to weight loss continues to broaden the health benefits associated with this citrus product.


How do you use grapefruit essential oil for weight loss?

If you are looking for a way to lose those extra pounds, grapefruit essential oil – a potent extract derived from the Citrus paradisi grapefruit plant, can be a powerful weapon. It was first reported in the Caribbean islands in the year 1750 and is documented to be a byproduct of sweet orange and the pomelo. The oil is loaded with heaps of nutrients and antioxidants[1] that alleviate oxidative stress and disease-causing inflammation.


The active ingredients in the grapefruit essential oil work to boost your metabolism[2] and bring down your appetite. When inhaled or applied topically, grapefruit oil is known to reduce cravings and hunger, which makes it a great tool for losing weight fast in a healthy way. Of course, using grapefruit oil alone isn’t going to make all the difference — but when it’s combined with dietary and lifestyle changes, it can work wonders just like CBD oil.


Let’s explore more about the beneficial properties of the grapefruit essential oil that can help you say adios to the extra kilos.


How Does Grapefruit Essential Oil Support Weight Loss?

Grapefruit essential oil is considered a rock star for weight loss and fat-burning. Although grapefruit essential oil is a wonderful inclusion to your weight loss program, it may not be the ultimate tool for losing all the body fats. It does not bar the absorption of fats or prevent the body from holding onto surplus calories. Having said that, it does help you to make wise choices and advance the journey to weight loss. It activates enzymes like D-limonene in the body that breaks down body fat. 


D-limonene boosts your metabolism and removes damaged cells from your lymphatic glands (adaptive immune system) so they can carry vital nutrients between the cells and the bloodstream.



In other words grapefruit, essential oil provides ample health benefits and can be administered aromatically, topically, or even internally. Grapefruit comprises an organic compound called Nootkatone that enhances energy metabolism and reduces abdominal fat accumulation. Nootkatone in grapefruit[3] serves as the stimulant of AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK), which helps in managing metabolic activity and expedites chemical reactions which possess metabolism-boosting characteristics. It also helps in lipolysis – the splitting of body fats and proteins with the help of limonene, another compound that naturally occurs in grapefruit. 


The peel and the pulp of grapefruit are used to extract grapefruit essential oil. Just like other essential oils, it aids in reducing sugar cravings, giving a feeling of satiety. With the help of antioxidants, the oil can lessen oxidative stress, reduce fluid retention and boost the immune system.


It also has a “refreshing and exciting effect” when inhaled, which suggests an activation of sympathetic nerve activity that helps control body weight.


It’s High In Nutrients, Yet Low In Calories

Grapefruit is a nutritionally dense fruit with incredible health benefits. That’s because it’s high in vital nutrients in comparison to its smaller, orange cousin, but low in calories. It is one of the lowest-calorie fruits  [4].


It provides a decent amount of fiber, in addition to more than 15 beneficial vitamins and minerals.


Here are some of the major nutrients found in half of a medium-sized grapefruit:



Calories: 52

Carbs: 13 gms

Protein: 1 gm

Fiber: 2 gm

Vitamin C: 64 percent of the Recommended Dietary Intake

Vitamin A: 28 percent of the Recommended Dietary Intake

Potassium: 5 percent of the Recommended Dietary Intake

Thiamine: 4 percent of the Recommended Dietary Intake

Folate: 4 percent of the Recommended Dietary Intake

Magnesium: 3 percent of the Recommended Dietary Intake

It also contains some powerful antioxidants that safeguard your cells from harmful bacteria and viruses.

Here's What Happens When You Eat Grapefruit Every Day



Benefits Of Grapefruit Essential Oil 

Stabilisation of blood sugar levels

Phytochemical compounds in grapefruit help in the reduction of insulin levels[5] that encourage your body to convert food into energy rather than converting them into fats.


Boosting metabolism

Grapefruit helps to increase metabolic activities and reduce appetite[6] due to the presence of digestive enzymes in them. As a result, you feel full and tend to burn more calories. At the end of the day, the difference between food consumed and burned calories is the determinant of your weight loss – a rocker!  



Reduces sugar cravings

If a sweet tooth is a driver to your diet, definitely consider grapefruit essential oil as it can lessen, or in some cases, totally deplete sugar cravings. Switch on to grapefruit essential oils and switch off those tempting candies that pump in extensive sugar levels.


Losing the bloating and Cellulite melting

Being a super excellent diuretic and lymphatic stimulant[7] (the network of tissues and organs that play a key role in removing toxins), grapefruit and its essential oil help shed waste and toxins from your body. 


Topical application of grapefruit essential oil in smaller quantities on your skin helps in shedding excess water weight in addition to reducing toxins from your body. Say goodbye to toxins, permanently.


If you are considering skin tone up, the grapefruit essential oil is an ultimate boon. It helps in the reduction of cellulite. It aids in detoxification of the skin, increasing circulation of blood on application.


Helps to Relieve Hangover Symptoms

Grapefruit essential oil is a powerful gallbladder and liver stimulant, so it can help stop headaches, cravings, and sluggishness following a day of drinking alcohol.


Aids indigestion 

Grapefruit supports digestive health, including helping to give relief from occasional heartburn and indigestion.


Using Grapefruit Essential Oil For Losing Weight

Inhaling – whenever you get an urge to eat sweet, inhale the grapefruit essential oil. A diffuser can be used throughout the day to experience the difference. Essential oil necklaces are really effective here. Just pour a few drops of oil on the aroma ball, place them in the locket and keep breathing. Besides looking beautiful, it is a portable diffuser on your neck.

Drinking – Add a few drops of essential oil in warm water or tea and have it several times a day. However, ensure you add them only to liquids in glass containers. Do not add them to water bottles made of plastic as it might react and start to corrode. 

Massaging – rub your wrist, neck, or even chest with grapefruit essential oil with a combination of coconut, olive, jojoba, or any other carrier oil. However, make sure you do not apply them concentrated as they might cause phototoxicity – skin burning when exposed to direct sunlight. It should be used with 4% dilution, ideally. For example, for a 10 ml grapefruit essential oil, it is recommended to add 12 drops of oil every 2 teaspoons. Ideally litmus test this on your skin to check for any skin reaction within 24 hours.

 The Bottom Line

Weight loss is a long-term commitment, and if you want to achieve a healthy body with managed weight and stay there, then you need to put in the effort and build healthy lifestyle habits. This means that there are certain changes that you need to consider in your daily routine, including eating a healthy diet, doing moderate workouts, and doing other physical activities. Opt for natural stuff that promises to keep you fit and healthy in the long run. Grapefruit is one such item that not only offers weight-loss benefits but myriads of other health benefits as well.


Grapefruit is one of the healthiest fruits on the planet. It’s rich in important vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that support the metabolism and offer detoxifying benefits. It is an energizing and uplifting oil when used topically, aromatically, as well as internally. On the whole, grapefruit essential oil can help you shed extra pounds, kick those unwanted food cravings, and help you to feel good about yourself! 


You should also maintain a healthy diet and get the exercise your body needs but grapefruit essentials can provide a bit of extra support for attaining your fitness goals.


+ 7 Sources

Health Canal avoids using tertiary references. We have strict sourcing guidelines and rely on peer-reviewed studies, academic researches from medical associations and institutions. To ensure the accuracy of articles in Health Canal, you can read more about the editorial process here


Deng, W., Liu, K., Cao, S., Sun, J., Zhong, B. and Chun, J. (2020). Chemical Composition, Antimicrobial, Antioxidant, and Antiproliferative Properties of Grapefruit Essential Oil Prepared by Molecular Distillation. Molecules, [online] 25(1), p.217. Available at: https://www.mdpi.com/1420-3049/25/1/217 [Accessed 18 Sep. 2021].

‌Journal of Essential Oil Research. (2017). Assessment of essential oil as a potential anti-obesity agent: a narrative review. [online] Available at: https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/10412905.2016.1213668?casa_token=GQLfszvQ6XUAAAAA%3ATEA5CdZlwunCtq2An4ynCsDykuftLOeiLkH-47KIMs7RDHdVuBA-JcnvFtJIkGL_Wrp2PbE8EAd5EQ&journalCode=tjeo20 [Accessed 18 Sep. 2021].

‌American Journal of Physiology-Endocrinology and Metabolism. (2020). Nootkatone, a characteristic constituent of grapefruit, stimulates energy metabolism and prevents diet-induced obesity by activating AMPK | American Journal of Physiology-Endocrinology and Metabolism. [online] Available at: https://journals.physiology.org/doi/full/10.1152/ajpendo.00774.2009 [Accessed 18 Sep. 2021].

‌Murphy, M.M., Barraj, L.M. and Rampersaud, G.C. (2014). Consumption of grapefruit is associated with higher nutrient intakes and diet quality among adults, and more favorable anthropometrics in women, NHANES 2003–2008. Food & Nutrition Research, [online] 58(1), p.22179. Available at: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4016745/ [Accessed 18 Sep. 2021].

‌Journal of Medicinal Food. (2021). The Effects of Grapefruit on Weight and Insulin Resistance: Relationship to the Metabolic Syndrome | Journal of Medicinal Food. [online] Available at: https://www.liebertpub.com/doi/abs/10.1089/jmf.2006.9.49 [Accessed 18 Sep. 2021].

‌Razavi, B.M. and Hosseinzadeh, H. (2019). A Review of the Effects of Citrus paradisi (Grapefruit) and Its Flavonoids, Naringin, and Naringenin in Metabolic Syndrome. Bioactive Food as Dietary Interventions for Diabetes, [online] pp.515–543. Available at: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/B9780128138229000345 [Accessed 18 Sep. 2021].

‌Cabdirect.org. (2021). CAB Direct. [online] Available at: https://www.cabdirect.org/?target=%2fcabdirect%2fabstract%2f20183290863 [Accessed 18 Sep. 2021].

Is grapefruit juice harmful?

Grapefruit and grapefruit juice are healthful, providing enough vitamin C, potassium, dietary fiber, and other nutrients to earn the American Heart Association's "heart-check" mark. That's the good news. The bad news is that grapefruit juice can interact with dozens of medications, sometimes dangerously.


Doctors are not sure which of the hundreds of chemicals in grapefruit are responsible. The leading candidate is furanocoumarin. It is also found in Seville (sour) oranges and tangelos; although these fruits have not been studied in detail, the guidelines for grapefruit should apply to them as well.


Why do grapefruit and medications interact? 

Grapefruit's culprit chemical does not interact directly with your pills. Instead, it binds to an enzyme in your intestinal tract known as CYP3A4, which reduces the absorption of certain medications. When grapefruit juice blocks the enzyme, it's easier for the medication to pass from your gut to your bloodstream. Blood levels will rise faster and higher than normal, and in some cases the abnormally high levels can be dangerous.


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A variety of medications can be boosted by grapefruit juice; the table below lists some of the most important along with related drugs that are less likely to be influenced.


Grapefruit and medication interactions

Drug category (major uses)


Medications substantially boosted by grapefruit juice


Generic name (Brand name)


Medications that have little or no interaction with grapefruit juice


Generic name (Brand name)


Calcium channel blockers (high blood pressure, angina)


Felodipine (Plendil)


Nifedipine (Procardia, Adalat)


Verapamil (Calan, Isoptin)


Diltiazem (Cardizem)


Amlodipine (Norvasc)


Statins (high cholesterol)


Atorvastatin (Lipitor)


Simvastatin (Zocor)


Lovastatin (Mevacor)


Fluvastatin (Lescol)


Pravastatin (Pravachol)


Rosuvastatin (Crestor)


Immunosuppressants (to prevent rejection of transplanted organs)


Cyclosporine (Sandimmune)


 

Benzodiazepines (anxiety, insomnia)


Diazepam (Valium)


Triazolam (Halcion)


Midazolam (Versed)


Flurazepam (Dalmane)


Clonazepam (Klonopin)


Other neurological and psychiatric medications


Buspirone (BuSpar)


Sertraline (Zoloft)


Carbamazepine (Tegretol)


Haloperidol (Haldol)


Trazodone (Desyrel)


Zolpidem (Ambien)


It doesn't take much grapefruit juice to boost the levels of drugs that are susceptible. A single glass can produce a 47% reduction of the intestinal enzyme that regulates absorption. And because this effect of the juice wears off slowly, a third of its impact is still evident after 24 hours.


What are the practical implications of this interaction? If you take one of the affected medications, the simplest solution is to switch to orange juice. If you are really hooked on grapefruit juice, though, you can ask your doctor whether you can switch to a related drug that's less vulnerable to the boosting effect. And if that's not possible, you should certainly avoid taking your pills and your juice simultaneously; the more time between the two, the better, and the smaller your glass of juice, the better. If you are on a low or moderate dose of the medication, you can probably get away with an occasional glass of grapefruit juice, but if you are on a high dose, it could be dangerous. That's especially true in the case of calcium channel blockers, which can lower your blood pressure or slow your heart rate excessively


Sildenafil (Viagra) is of special interest to men. The clinical information is incomplete, but men who take Viagra should be aware that grapefruit juice might boost blood levels of the drug. That could be a good thing for some men with erectile dysfunction, but it could trigger headaches, flushing, or low blood pressure.

Is grapefruit good for the stomach?

Why is grapefruit good for you?

Grapefruit is a citrus fruit with a flavor that can range from bittersweet to sour. It contains a range of essential vitamins and minerals. People can consume the fruit whole or as a juice or pulp.

Grapefruit Detoxing Drink and Loss Weight From Chef Ricardo Juice Bar #LossWeight



The grapefruit first appeared in the 18th century, as a result of crossing a pomelo and an orange. People called it “grapefruit” because it grows in clusters, similar to grapes.


The nutrients grapefruit contains may help promote healthy skin and protect against various conditions. They may also play a role in weight maintenance.


In this article, learn about some of the possible health benefits of grapefruit. Also, find out who should take care when consuming grapefruit.


Benefits

Grapefruit is low in calories but very rich in nutrients. It is also an excellent source of vitamins A and C.


The sections below discuss the specific health benefits of grapefruit in more detail.


Diabetes

Grapefruit is low on the glycemic index. This means that it provides nutrients but does not have a significant negative impact on a person’s blood sugar levels.


One studyTrusted Source from 2013 describes grapefruit as “significantly associated with a reduced risk of type 2 diabetes.” The authors also note that grapefruit contains naringin.


They go on to say that naringin appears to have similar properties to an inhibitor that doctors use to improve glucose tolerance in people with type 2 diabetes.


Which foods are good for people with diabetes? Find out here.


Weight loss

Some people claim that grapefruit is a miracle weight loss fruit. In one study, researchers found no evidence to suggest that grapefruit can help people lose weight.


However, they did conclude that grapefruit may help improve blood pressure and lipid (fat) levels in the blood. There is a link between high blood pressure, lipid levels, and obesity.


Further studies could prove that the nutrients in grapefruit have long term benefits for weight control and obesity prevention.


What are some good breakfasts for weight loss? Find out here.


Stroke

According to an American Heart Association (AHA) study, eating more flavonoids may lower the risk of ischemic stroke among women. Flavonoids are compounds present in citrus fruits such as oranges and grapefruit.


The risk of ischemic stroke was 19% lower among those who consumed the highest amounts of citrus fruits.


Blood pressure and heart health

The combination of fiber, potassium, lycopene, vitamin C, and choline in grapefruit could all contribute to heart health.


The AHA encourage people to increase their dietary intake of potassium and reduce the amount of salt they add to foods. This can help prevent high blood pressure and a range of complications that can result from it.


According to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), one small grapefruit measuring 3.5 inches across and weighing around 200 grams (g) contains 278 milligrams (mg) of potassium.


The 2015–2020 Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommend that adults consume around 4,700 mgTrusted Source of potassium each day. This means that one small grapefruit can provide around 6% of a person’s daily need for potassium.


The DASH dietTrusted Source, which health professionals designed to reduce blood pressure through dietary options, includes grapefruit as a recommended food.


Learn more about the DASH diet here.


Cancer

Grapefruit is a rich source of antioxidants, such as vitamin C. These can help combat the formation of free radicals, which experts believe give rise to cancer.


A small grapefruit can provide 68.8 mg of vitamin C. The recommended adult intakeTrusted Source of vitamin C is 75 mg per day for women and 90 mg for men.


A small grapefruit also contains 2,270 micrograms (mcg) of lycopene, which is another antioxidant.


One 2016 population studyTrusted Source looked at data for nearly 50,000 men. Its authors conclude that there is a link between a high consumption of tomato sauce, which contains lycopene, and a lower risk of prostate cancer.


How does diet affect the risk of cancer? Learn more here.


Digestion

Grapefruit contains water and fiber. Specifically, a small grapefruit weighing 200 g contains 182 g of water and 2.2 g of fiber. Both water and fiber can help prevent constipation and promote regularity for a healthy digestive tract.


Adults should try to consume 28 to 33.6 g of fiber per day, depending on their age and sex.


There is also evidenceTrusted Source to suggest that a high intake of dietary fiber can help prevent colorectal cancer.


Why is dietary fiber important? Find out here.


Skin

Vitamin C plays a vital role in the formation of collagen, the main support system of the skin.


The authors of a 2017 studyTrusted Source conclude that vitamin C could help protect against sun damage and aging. They also note a link between a person’s levels of vitamin C and their intake of fresh fruits and vegetables.


However, some scientists have found evidence to suggest a link between a very high citrus intake and the development of malignant melanoma.


They looked at how much citrus juice people consumed each week over a period of 24–26 years, and they found a higher incidence of malignant melanoma among people who consumed more citrus juice.


The study authors recommend further investigation.


Why do we need vitamin C? Find out here.


Immune function

Vitamin C helps support the immune system in a number of ways. For example, a dietary intake of vitamin C may help prevent and treat respiratory and other infections, according to an articleTrusted Source from 2017.


In particular, older adults, people with chronic conditions, and those who smoke should ensure that they have an adequate intake of vitamin C. Grapefruit may be a good option.


What other foods provide vitamin C? Find out here.


Nutrition

According to the USDA, one small grapefruit measuring 3.5 inches across and weighing 200 g contains the following nutrients.


The table below also shows the recommended daily amounts for adults aged 19 and over.


Nutrient Amount in 200 g of grapefruit Recommended daily intakeTrusted Source

Energy (calories) 64 1,800–3,000

Protein (g) 1.3 46–56

Carbohydrate (g) 16.2, of which 14 g is sugar 130

Fiber (g) 2.2 22.4–33.6

Iron (mg) 0.2 8–18

Calcium (mg) 24 1,000–1,200

Magnesium (mg) 16 310–410

Phosphorus (mg) 16 700

Potassium (mg) 278 4,700

Vitamin C (mcg) 68.8 75–90

Folate (mcg) 20 400

Choline (mg) 15.4 425–550

Vitamin A (mcg) 92 700–900

Beta-carotene (mcg) 1,100 No data

Lycopene (mcg)No 2,270 No data

Lutein and zeaxanthin (mcg) 12 No data

Lycopene, beta-carotene, lutein, zeaxanthin, and vitamins A and C all act as antioxidants.


Diet

Here are some tips for buying and storing grapefruit:


Buy grapefruit in the winter, as citrus fruits ripen at this time, and they are more likely to be fresh.

Choose a grapefruit that is heavy for its size and has a little softness when squeezed.

Harvest or buy grapefruits that are ripe, as they do not ripen after picking.

Store grapefruit at room temperature, away from direct sunlight.

There are various ways to add grapefruit to the diet. To incorporate it in the diet:


Add some grapefruit slices to a salad at lunch or dinner and sprinkle with walnuts or pecans, crumbled cheese, and a light balsamic vinegar.

Serve half a grapefruit at breakfast or as a starter.

Squeeze grapefruit juice for a refreshing drink. If the fruit is sour, combine it with orange juice.

Add grapefruit to a fruit salad with strawberries, pineapple, mandarin oranges, and grapes.

Here are some other healthful recipes ideas:


Grapefruit yogurt cake

Salmon kebabs with grapefruit and quinoa salad

Risks

Grapefruit is not suitable for everyone to consume. Learn about the risks and considerations of grapefruit consumption below.


Drug interactions

People should avoid consuming grapefruit when taking certain medications, as it has an enzyme-binding ability. This can cause the medication to pass from the gut into the bloodstream faster than usual.


This can raise the levels of medication in the blood, and it could be dangerous.


Some medications that grapefruit can affect include:


statins

calcium channel blockers

some psychiatric drugs

Kidney conditions

People with kidney infections should also be cautious when consuming grapefruit, due to the high levels of potassium it contains.


Damage to the kidneys can make it difficult to remove excess potassium from the blood. In some cases, a buildup of potassium can be life-threatening.


Gastroesophageal reflux disease

People with gastroesophageal reflux disease may experience a worsening of heartburn and regurgitation when consuming grapefruit, as it is highly acidic.


However, individual reactions vary.


Summary

Grapefruit is rich in vitamin C, and it provides fiber and antioxidants.


Unless a person has a specific condition that makes it unsuitable, grapefruit can be a healthful addition to any diet.

Which grapefruit is the healthiest?

How often do you eat grapefruit? Daily? Occasionally? Never?


Maybe grapefruit’s reputation as a “diet food” has you reluctant to give this citrus superfood a try. (After all we’ve all heard of the infamous “grapefruit diet,” after all, which likely was spawned by the scarcity of how many calories in a grapefruit.) Or maybe it’s the fruit’s notoriously tart and bitter taste. Regardless, with all the health benefits grapefruit has to offer, combined with the sweet taste of different varieties, it may be time for you to give grapefruit another shot.


But what is grapefruit, and is grapefruit good for you? In short, grapefruit is a tropical citrus fruit known for its sweet and somewhat sour taste. It is rich in nutrients, antioxidants and fiber, making it one of the healthiest citrus fruits you can eat.


Types of Grapefruit

If you think of grapefruit as tasting unpleasantly bitter, you’re probably thinking of traditional white grapefruit. While some people find the tartness unappealing, many others do not. Never fear! Some varieties of grapefruit tone down the bitterness so grapefruit’s unique flavor shines through, and others are downright sweet. Not to be confused with pink grapefruit (which are just as tart as white), red grapefruit are mild and sweet due to their lower acidity. The rule of thumb is, the redder the flesh, the sweeter the grapefruit. Ruby Red Grapefruit is one of the sweetest grapefruit varieties available, and even healthier for you than white grapefruit as it contains lycopene and beta-carotene (which are what make the flesh red).


Health Benefits of Grapefruit

Grapefruit is known for its powerful health benefits, including helping you to lose weight and lowering your risk of heart disease.


Grapefruit is low in calories (only 52 grapefruit calories per serving), but provides a significant amount of fiber, vitamins, minerals and antioxidants in every serving. A single serving of grapefruit gives you a whopping 64% of the recommended daily intake of Vitamin C, which has antioxidant properties known to protect your cells from harmful bacteria and viruses as well as helping you to recover more quickly from the common cold.


In addition to how grapefruit benefits your immune system, its reputation as a weight-loss aid is well-deserved: grapefruit contains fiber and a high-water content, both of which help with appetite control by promoting fullness (not to mention aiding in keeping you hydrated).


Grapefruit and grapefruit juice benefits also include the following:


Grapefruit may help reduce insulin resistance, which can lower your risk of developing Type 2 Diabetes.

Grapefruit contains nutrients and antioxidants shown to help protect your heart by regulating blood pressure and cholesterol levels.

Grapefruit contains several types of antioxidants that may help prevent the development of some chronic conditions, including heart disease and cancer.

The citric acidity in grapefruit may help reduce the formation of calcium oxalate kidney stones.

How to Eat Grapefruit

After reading all that, you’re convinced that adding grapefruit to your diet would be a good thing. But how to start? And what is grapefruit good for besides eating out of hand? After all, you don’t even have a funny-shaped grapefruit knife or grapefruit spoon! Well, you don’t need one – adding grapefruit to your diet is easy. And delicious! Here are some ideas:


Eat a whole grapefruit before you eat the rest of your breakfast

Drink an 8 oz. glass of 100% grapefruit juice

Peel grapefruit sections and add the fruit to a yogurt parfait

Dice grapefruit and add it to a fruit smoothie

Mix grapefruit sections into a fruit bowl

Instead of traditional berries, add grapefruit to your green salad

Top broiled or baked fish with grapefruit instead of lemon for a zing of flavor

Slice a grapefruit in half, top with a sprinkle of brown sugar and broil for a healthy dessert

Stir grapefruit into vanilla ice cream or frozen yogurt

Enjoy your Vitamin C!

Can you drink too much grapefruit juice?

CLEVELAND — Grapefruit is in full bloom this time of year and it’s becoming increasingly popular.


But not without concern.


Doctors are now worried grapefruit may be causing more harm than good as more and more people use it as an alternative medicine. Though rich in Vitamin C, Ryan Marino, a medical toxicologist with University Hospitals, says you shouldn’t drink or eat too much it.


“If someone's drinking multiple glasses or consuming this every single day, then it can build up and the effects can last for several days at a time,” said Marino.


As Marino explains, excessive consumption could lead to an attack on your body.


“Grapefruit can inhibit that one enzyme and lead to significantly increased concentrations of medicines in your body.”


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Classroom generic

The enzyme Marino is referring to processes drugs or medicines you may take. It helps lessen side effects and toxicity from medications.



“For most people this probably isn't going to be a problem,” he said. “Big concerns would be for people who are on certain blood pressure medications and certain cholesterol lowering medications, as well as some psychiatric medications for mood and depression and anxiety.”


So before try something new or look to revamp your diet, Marino says it’s best to talk you’re your doctor.


“This isn't something that you should just be reaching out to the internet, to social media or that kind of thing,” he said. “When you cut out other balanced parts of a diet that that can cause detrimental effects too.”

What should I eat on an empty stomach to lose weight?

Detox drinks can turn out to be quite effective in the weight loss journey. This is primarily because detox drinks facilitate proper digestion and a good digestive system is a key to healthy weight loss. Detox drinks also help flush out toxins from the body and give a considerable boost to the body’s metabolism.


drinks

Image: Shutterstock

How Grapefruit Can Kill You



A good metabolism and digestive system can help you achieve your weight loss goal easily, provided you make some dietary changes these five drinks will increase your metabolism and help you in losing weight. Even if you don’t follow a strict diet and just eat light and healthy, your system will be sorted with these detox drinks.

Vetiver Water

Vetiver Water

Image: Shutterstock


Vetiver or khus khus is known for its cooling properties. It is easy to make by boiling the vetiver roots in water. Drink it once in the day after filtering the water. This detox water is perfect for weight loss, nerve relaxation, and treating insomnia. It is great for the skin and liver too. Another way to use vetiver roots is through the essential oils extracted from them. This has antiseptic benefits, and when used on skin and hair, can cleanse, nourish and heal.

Coriander Water


Coriander Water

Image: Shutterstock


Coriander stimulates digestive enzymes and juices, which are known to enhance our digestive system. It is a good source of fibre too. This drink is loaded with minerals and vitamins, potassium, iron, magnesium, calcium, folic acid, and vitamins A, K, and C. Boil water with with one tablespoon of coriander seeds in it. Bring to a boil, turn of the heat and let it cool down overnight. Filter the water the next morning and your coriander water is ready.  

Cumin-Lemon Water


Cumin-Lemon Water

Image: Shutterstock


Cumin can help in burning calories faster by increasing the speed of metabolism and improving digestion. Soak cumin seeds or jeera overnight, then boil the water along with the seeds. Drain out the seeds and drink lukewarm water, add half a lime juice into detox water, and drink it as a morning first drink.

Cinnamon Water With Honey


Cinnamon Water With Honey

Image: Shutterstock


Consuming honey right before bedtime can help you burn more calories during the early hours of sleep. This ingredient is enriched with essential vitamins, minerals, and healthy fats as well. Essential hormones in honey suppress appetite and aid weight loss. Cinnamon, on the other hand, helps you lose visceral fat and supports weight loss. Antimicrobial, antiparasitic properties of cinnamon make it one of the healthiest spices of all time. It prevents common colds, allergies, cholesterol, bladder infections, etc.

Fenugreek Water


Fenugreek Water 

Image: Shutterstock


Fenugreek is a rich source of many beneficial vitamins and minerals such as iron, magnesium, manganese, copper, vitamin B6, protein, and dietary fibre. It also contains antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Most of the health benefits of fenugreek are credited to the presence of saponins and fibre in it. Due to its high-quality fibre content, fenugreek helps in digestion and preventing constipation. You just need to soak some fenugreek seeds overnight and drink the water early morning on an empty stomach. Just drain out the seeds and drink the water.

When's the best time to eat a grapefruit?

The best time to eat grapefruit is at breakfast, or before the main meal of the day. It can regulate appetite, as it’s mainly water and fiber with only 30 calories per 100g!



Grapefruit is good for breakfast

Certainly, grapefruit is good for people who want to lose weight. A whole grapefruit has only 75 calories, and it keeps you full for hours.[1]


Above all, you should eat grapefruit at breakfast, because it’s particularly rich in vitamin C. A whole grapefruit has about 90 mg of vitamin C. The recommended daily intake for men! Vitamin C is necessary for weight loss. It helps you burn body fat. Additionally, you better consume foods high in vitamin C in the morning, as it can protect you from the dangerous sun radiation. Actually, UV irradiation is the main reason for skin aging. But, vitamin C protects the skin. It has anti-aging properties.



Moreover, grapefruit has a high antioxidant content. We need to consume lots of foods high in antioxidants, in order, to prevent oxidative stress. Chronic oxidative stress can lead to obesity. Boosting our body with antioxidants, first thing in the morning, helps us lose weight. For instance, pink grapefruits is a good dietary source of lycopene. Lycopene is an antioxidant which can help us burn body fat and also, deal with obesity-associated disorders.[2,3]


Also, breakfast is a great time to consume grapefruit, as grapefruit has a pretty low glycemic index. Actually, grapefruit has a glycemic index of 25 and a glycemic load of 3.[4] Practically, it means that people who want to lose weight can safely eat grapefruit on an empty stomach! Grapefruit won’t spike blood sugar as much, as other fruits. It’s good for obese people who are hungry all the time, or people with diabetes.


Last, but not least, prefer consuming whole grapefruit, instead of grapefruit juice at breakfast. Grapefruit juice can’t regulate hunger for a long time. On the contrary, whole grapefruit reduces appetite for hours, as it contains fiber.



Additionally, you could eat oatmeal, along with half a grapefruit, for breakfast. Oatmeal is pretty rich in fiber and protein. So, it’ll keep you full for hours!


The best time to eat grapefruit is before the main meal of the day

Furthermore, a great time to eat grapefruit is before the main meal of the day. Grapefruit is rich in water and dietary fiber. A whole grapefruit has about 230g of water and 2.7g of fiber! Water and fiber have a huge satiating effect. So, we tend to consume fewer calories! Caloric deficit is key for weight loss. After all, a whole grapefruit has only 75 calories!


Following a diet high in dietary fiber can help you lose weight, improve body composition, and reduce the total percentage of fat in the body. We need about 28g of fiber a day.[5]


Additionally, grapefruit is good for weight loss, as it significantly reduce blood glucose after a meal and also improve insulin resistance.[6]



Moreover, eating half a grapefruit before the main meal of the day can reduce waist circumference and systolic blood pressure.[7]


Furthermore, grapefruit is rich in potassium. Half a grapefruit has 156 mg of potassium. Eating half a grapefruit before a meal high in salt is good for weight loss. Potassium neutralizes the negative effects of sodium. A diet high in potassium has been associated with a low body weight index (BMI), small waist circumference, and a low risk of obesity!


Grapefruit for dinner helps you lose weight

Also, you could lose weight, consuming grapefruit for dinner. Mainly due to its low caloric content. As a rule of thumb, we should consume foods low in calories at dinner, if we want to lose weight. Most people tend to over consume calories at night. So, eating foods low in calories at night plays a key for weight loss.


Additionally, vitamin C in grapefruit may help you sleep. Actually, vitamin C is good for good night sleep.



You can eat grapefruit before or after exercise

Last, but not least, you could benefit by eating grapefruit or drinking grapefruit juice before/after exercise. Grapefruit is 92% water! So, it can hydrate athletes.


Actually, fruit juices hydrate us better than tap water. Firstly, fruit juices contain the purest water. They’re natural filters. Secondly, fruit juices are rich in electrolytes. Grapefruit juice as well… Electrolytes are key minerals for the proper function of nerves and muscles. We lose electrolytes and water when we sweat. So, restoring them is vital for sport performance!

When should you eat grapefruit to lose weight?

TheBUZZ Grapefruit helps you lose weight?

WHAT THEY’RE SAYING


Eating half a grapefruit before meals will cause you to burn fat and lose weight.


WHAT WE KNOW


The grapefruit diet, sometimes called the “Hollywood Diet,” has been around since the 1930’s. There are variations of the diet, but eating half a grapefruit prior to each meal to lose weight is the premise. At least two studies have been done to specifically test the effectiveness of grapefruit on weight loss. One study of obese patients does suggest that eating grapefruit or drinking grapefruit juice before meals may assist weight loss.¹ However, a more recent grapefruit study suggests that consumption of any low-energy-dense food (i.e. foods that are low in calories but high in water) 20 minutes prior to a meal, coupled with a calorie-restricted diet, can be a great weight-loss strategy.²


HOW DO WE KNOW THIS?


The first study, conducted with 91 obese adults, showed greater weight loss in those who ate half a fresh grapefruit before meals each day compared to those who ate nothing prior to each meal over a 12-week period. In the more recent study at Vanderbilt University, 85 obese subjects followed a 2-week calorie-restricted diet and were randomly assigned grapefruit, grapefruit juice, or a water preload consumed 20 minutes before each of three daily meals for 12 weeks. The rate of weight loss was significantly greater for all three preload groups compared to the two weeks without a preload. Those consuming the preload reported feeling less hungry as well. This adds to a growing body of research that suggests the consumption of foods that are low in calories but high in water (like grapefruit or other fruit) prior to a meal, coupled with a calorie-restricted diet can help reduce hunger and offers a great weight-loss strategy.


OUR ADVICE


Eating half a grapefruit or a serving of other fruit or vegetable prior to meals can help decrease caloric intake at the meal while adding to the satiety of the meal. Remember to make half your plate fruits and vegetables every time you eat, and include grapefruit as part of those meals and snacks! Below are some simple ways to add delicious, healthy, and satisfying grapefruit to your day …


6 Ways to Add Grapefruit to Your Day

Peel and eat for a quick and easy snack on the go!

Toss with cooked shrimp and fresh avocado into a salad to add an exotic twist

Add slices to yogurt for a light snack or breakfast

Mix juice into sauces for a sweet and tangy twist

Chop into vinaigrettes, sauces and relishes

For a summer salsa, dice with cilantro and chili peppers and serve over poultry or fish – or even with chips for a party snack

Grapefruit Recipes

Rio Grande Spinach Salad

Chicken with Ginger, Broccoli & Grapefruit


 


¹ The effects of grapefruit on weight and insulin resistance: relationship to the metabolic syndrome. J Med Food, 2006 Spring;9(1):49-54. View Article

² Effects of grapefruit, grapefruit juice and water preloads on energy balance, weight loss, body composition, and cardiometabolic risk in free-living obese adults. Nutrition & Metabolism, 2011 View Article

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What are the side effects of grapefruit juice?

Grapefruit is a delicious citrus fruit with many health benefits. However, it can interact with some common medications, altering their effects on your body.


If you’re curious about the grapefruit warning on many medicines, this article will help you understand why it’s there and what your options are.


Here’s a closer look at 31 common drugs that may have dangerous interactions with grapefruit, as well as some alternatives.


Note: This article contains general information — not specific medical advice. Talk to your physician before changing your use of any medication.


How does it interact with medications?

Medications are processed in your liver and small intestine by a specialized group of proteins called cytochrome P450 (CYPs).


CYPs break down medications, reducing the blood levels of many of them.


Grapefruit and a few of its close relatives, such as Seville oranges, tangelos, pomelos, and Minneolas, contain a class of chemicals called furanocoumarins.


Furanocoumarins disrupt the normal function of CYPs. In fact, studies show that they increase the blood levels of over 85 medications (1).


By slowing the way in which CYPs normally break down medications in your gut and liver, grapefruit can increase the side effects of these drugs (1).


There are three things to know to understand if and how you can safely consume grapefruit with these medications.


It doesn’t take much. One whole grapefruit or one glass of grapefruit juice is enough to alter how these medications affect you.

Its effects last several days. Grapefruit’s ability to affect medication lasts for 1–3 days. Taking your medication a few hours apart from consuming it isn’t long enough.

It’s significant. For a small number of drugs, grapefruit’s effects can be serious.

With that in mind, here is detailed information about 32 common medications that may interact with grapefruit, categorized by use.



1–3: Some cholesterol medications

Some cholesterol medications called statins are affected by grapefruit.


Statins work by limiting the natural production of cholesterol. This improves the profile of lipoproteins in the blood and decreases deaths from heart disease in patients at risk of it (2Trusted Source).


Statins can cause rhabdomyolysis, or the breakdown of muscle tissue. This leads to muscle weakness, pain, and occasionally kidney damage (3Trusted Source).

What happens when you only eat fruit | A Current Affair Australia



Grapefruit increases the blood levels of three common statins substantially, increasing the risk of rhabdomyolysis (4Trusted Source):


Atorvastatin (Lipitor)

Lovastatin (Mevacor)

Simvastatin (Zocor)

One study showed that drinking a glass of grapefruit juice with simvastatin or lovastatin increased blood levels of these statins by 260% (5Trusted Source).


Alternatives: Pravastatin (Pravachol), rosuvastatin (Crestor), and fluvastatin (Lescol) do not interact with grapefruit (1).


SUMMARY

Grapefruit can increase the side effects of some statin cholesterol medications, causing muscle damage.


4–7: Certain blood pressure medications

Most types of blood pressure medicines are not affected by grapefruit.


However, the following four blood pressure medications should be used cautiously:


Felodipine

Nifedipine (Procardia)

Losartan (Cozaar)

Eplerenone (Inspra)

The first two medications in this list are known as calcium channel blockers. They work by changing the way your blood vessels use calcium, relaxing the vessels, and relieving blood pressure.


The last two medications in this list work by decreasing the activity of a hormone called angiotensin 2, which naturally increases blood pressure.


One study found blood levels of nifedipine increased dramatically when taken with about 2 cups (500 mL) of grapefruit juice, compared with no juice. This resulted in a rapid drop in blood pressure, which could be dangerous if unsupervised (6Trusted Source).


Losartan is unusual in that grapefruit decreases its effects, potentially limiting its ability to control blood pressure (7Trusted Source).


Eplerenone works similarly to losartan, but its levels increase when taken with grapefruit. Excessive eplerenone levels can cause too much potassium in the blood, which can interfere with heart rhythm (1).


Alternatives: Spironolactone (Aldactone), a similar drug to losartan and eplerenone, does not interact with grapefruit. Amlodipine (Norvasc) is a calcium channel blocker like felodipine and nifedipine, which also does not interact with grapefruit (6Trusted Source, 8Trusted Source).


SUMMARY

Though grapefruit does not interfere with most blood pressure medications, it can cause a few medications to overcorrect blood pressure.


8–9: A few heart rhythm medications

Grapefruit influences a few medications that treat abnormal heart rhythms.


These interactions can be particularly dangerous and include:


Amiodarone

Dronedarone (Multaq)

A study gave 11 men who were taking amiodarone a glass of grapefruit juice (about 300 mL). Drug levels increased by up to 84%, compared with those not drinking the juice (9Trusted Source).


These two medications play a critical role in managing the health of patients with heart rhythm disorders. Grapefruit-related changes in levels of these drugs have occasionally caused dangerous heart rhythm changes (10Trusted Source).


SUMMARY

Although only a few heart rhythm medications interact with grapefruit, the side effects can be dangerous.


10–13: Some anti-infection medications

Collectively called antimicrobials, these anti-infection medications vary widely in their actions and breakdown in the body.


Although antimicrobials are one of the most diverse categories of medications, there are only a few medications with known important grapefruit interactions:


Erythromycin

Rilpivirine and related HIV drugs

Primaquine and related antimalarial drugs

Albendazole

Erythromycin is used to treat several types of bacterial infections. A study comparing grapefruit juice with water in patients taking erythromycin showed that the juice increased the drug’s blood levels by 84% (11Trusted Source).


Excess levels of this medication can disrupt heart rhythm (11Trusted Source).


Grapefruit also increases levels of the HIV medications rilpivirine and maraviroc, in addition to primaquine-related antimalarial drugs. This may affect heart rhythm or function (1).


Because antimicrobials are generally taken for a limited time, perhaps it’s easiest to simply avoid grapefruit while taking these medications.


Alternatives: Clarithromycin is a medication in the same class as erythromycin that does not interact with grapefruit. Doxycycline is both an antibiotic and antimalarial drug that also does not interact with it (1).


SUMMARY

Some anti-infection medications should not be used with grapefruit, as they can lead to disrupted heart rhythm or function.


WERBUNG



14–20: Several mood medications

Most antidepressants and anti-anxiety drugs are safe to use with grapefruit.


However, several mood medications do interact with it, including:


Quetiapine (Seroquel)

Lurasidone (Latuda)

Ziprasidone (Geodon)

Buspirone (Buspar)

Diazepam (Valium)

Midazolam (Versed)

Triazolam (Halcion)

Drugs like quetiapine and lurasidone are used to treat mood and behavioral disorders. Increased levels of these drugs can cause heart rhythm changes or sleepiness (1).


Furthermore, diazepam, midazolam, and triazolam are sedatives that are sometimes used for panic attacks or other forms of anxiety.


One study compared some of these drugs in nine patients, some of whom consumed grapefruit. It showed that grapefruit can increase these drugs’ effects, resulting in excessive drowsiness (12Trusted Source).


SUMMARY

Eating grapefruit while taking the mood-related medications above can result in heart rhythm changes, excessive sleepiness, and other drug-specific effects.


21–24: Certain blood thinners

Blood thinners are used to treat or prevent blood clots. Some of them are affected by grapefruit, including:


Apixaban (Eliquis)

Rivaroxaban (Xarelto)

Clopidogrel (Plavix)

Ticagrelor (Brilinta)

Clopidogrel depends on CYPs — the proteins that grapefruit limits — to work. Thus, it becomes less active when mixed with grapefruit.


A study of 7 patients taking clopidogrel with 200 mL of either grapefruit juice or water showed lower activation of the drug with the juice. However, its ability to treat blood clots was not affected (13Trusted Source).


Contrarily, grapefruit increases the blood levels of other medications on this list, which can result in bleeding (14Trusted Source).


Alternatives: Warfarin (Coumadin) is used for purposes similar to those of apixaban and rivaroxaban. While warfarin is sensitive to foods containing vitamin K, its activation is not affected by grapefruit (15Trusted Source).


SUMMARY

Several blood thinners are affected by grapefruit. This can lead to bleeding or less effective prevention of blood clots.


25–27: Several pain medications

Multiple pain medications are affected by grapefruit:


Fentanyl

Oxycodone

Colchicine

Fentanyl and oxycodone are narcotic pain relievers. Although their blood levels are only slightly affected by small amounts of grapefruit, it may change the length of time they remain in the body (16Trusted Source, 17Trusted Source).


Colchicine is an older medication used to treat gout. It’s processed by CYPs and could interact with grapefruit. Nevertheless, a 2012 study showed that drinking 240 mL of grapefruit juice only had a minimal effect on its levels (18Trusted Source).


Alternatives: Morphine and Dilaudid are narcotic pain relievers that are not affected by grapefruit (1).


SUMMARY

Some narcotic pain relievers persist longer in the blood when taken with grapefruit.


28–31: A few erectile dysfunction and prostate medications

A few erectile dysfunction and prostate medications deserve attention regarding grapefruit interactions:


Sildenafil (Viagra)

Tadalafil (Cialis)

Tamsulosin (Flomax)

Silodosin (Rapaflo)

Erectile dysfunction medications like sildenafil and tadalafil work by relaxing blood vessels, which increases blood flow to an erection.


Because other blood vessels relax with these medications as well, increased blood levels of these drugs caused by grapefruit can decrease blood pressure (8Trusted Source).


Moreover, prostate enlargement medications such as tamsulosin can also cause increased dizziness and low blood pressure when taken with grapefruit (19Trusted Source).


Alternatives: Another class of prostate enlargement medications, which includes finasteride and dutasteride, is not significantly affected by grapefruit (19Trusted Source).


SUMMARY

Grapefruit should not be consumed with erectile dysfunction medications or certain prostate enlargement medications.


Should you give up grapefruit?

While this article lists 31 common medications that interact with grapefruit, it’s not a complete list.


Drugs.com offers a drug interaction checker that you can use to check your medications for interactions.


Additionally, Rxlist.com lists some less common medications that interact with grapefruit.


It’s important to remember that just one whole grapefruit or about one large glass of juice is enough to change the blood levels of many drugs. And some of these medications may have serious side effects when they interact with grapefruit.


If you are currently taking medications with grapefruit interactions, switch to an alternative drug or stop consuming grapefruit.


If in doubt, reach out to your doctor or pharmacist for personalized advice.


SUMMARY

Even small amounts of grapefruit can interact with some medications and cause serious side effects.


The bottom line

Grapefruit interferes with proteins in the small intestine and liver that normally break down many medications.

10 Fruits That'll Help You Lose Weight



Eating grapefruit or drinking grapefruit juice while taking these medications can lead to higher levels of them in your blood — and more side effects.


With some drugs, with even small amounts of grapefruit can cause severe side effects. Therefore, the combination should be avoided.


Your pharmacy may mark these drugs with a grapefruit interaction warning.


Make sure your doctor and pharmacist know if you regularly consume grapefruit. They can help you decide whether it’s safe to consume it while on certain medications.

What grapefruit does to your body?

Grapefruit is a large citrus fruit commonly eaten as part of a balanced breakfast. It’s grown in tropical regions and is in season in the winter. It’s the only citrus fruit native to the Americas.


There are over 20 varieties of grapefruit grown in the United States. They are large, bright yellow, and grow in bunches like grapes do — but unlike grapes, grapefruit grows on trees rather than vines.


Health Benefits

Grapefruit is a nutritionally-dense fruit. Despite having relatively few calories, it’s loaded with nutrients to help your body thrive. It has also been found to have many different health benefits.


Boosts Immune System


Like many citrus fruits, grapefruit is loaded with vitamin C, a nutrient shown to help boost your body’s immune system. Grapefruit is also loaded with Vitamin A, another vitamin that has been proven to help immune function.This powerful combination could help keep the amount of time you spend sick to a minimum.


Helps with Weight Management


Obesity is a common medical problem that can lead to more issues, including heart disease and type 2 diabetes. Overeating is one contributing factor to obesity. Fiber-packed grapefruit can help with weight management by slowing the rate that your body digests food, making you feel fuller and reducing the desire to overeat. 



Reduces the Risk of Kidney Stones


Kidney stones can be extremely painful to pass. There are many causes of kidney stones, including weight, diet, and certain medications. Eating grapefruit may help prevent kidney stones formed by calcium buildup. The citric acid in grapefruit can bind with excess calcium to help flush it from your system.


Nutrition

There’s a reason grapefruit is sometimes referred to as a superfood. In addition to its other health benefits, a serving of grapefruit is packed with vitamins and minerals. These include: 


Vitamin C

Vitamin A

Calcium

Iron


Nutrients per Serving


Half of a medium grapefruit contains: 


Calories: 41

Fat: 0 grams

Cholesterol: 0 milligrams

Sodium: 0 milligrams

Carbohydrates: 10 grams

Fiber: 1 gram

Sugar: 9 grams

Protein: 1 gram

SUGGESTED




Things to Watch Out For


If you take prescription medications, ask your doctor before eating grapefruit or drinking grapefruit juice. Grapefruit can have serious negative interactions with certain medications. These include some medications for high blood pressure, abnormal heart rhythms, cholesterol, and anxiety, among others. 


Like most fruits, grapefruit is also relatively high in sugar. Although the amount you’d find in one or two servings of fresh grapefruit is generally fine, the sugar content can add up quickly with grapefruit juices.


How to Prepare Grapefruit

People most often enjoy grapefruit on its own rather than in recipes or meals. 



To eat a fresh grapefruit, first cut the fruit in half. Then, using a spoon, dig the fleshy triangles of fruit out of the rind, avoiding the bitter walls nestled between bits of fruit. Grapefruit can have a sharp, tangy taste to it — sprinkling a little sugar on it can cut the bite and make it taste better. 


For other ways to add grapefruit into your diet, consider:


Freezing grapefruit chunks and adding them into smoothies

Making grapefruit salsa as an accompaniment for fish

Adding grapefruit to a salad as a healthy alternative to salad dressing

Making a quinoa bowl with grapefruit and avocado

What fruit burns the most fat?

Fruits and vegetables are extremely important in a weight loss diet as they help the body fight bad cholesterol and diseases, by providing it with essential nutrients, vitamins and minerals. Fruits are extremely nutrient-dense foods and are also high on fiber and water, helping the body to stay hydrated and satiated. Nutrition experts recommend a diet comprised of a greater percentage of organic and raw fruits, as well as vegetables, instead of whole grains and fats, for this very reason.Also Read - World Pulmonary Hypertension Day: How Sleep Apnoea Can Lead To Pulmonary Hypertension


Eating fruits raw is considered more nutritious as the water dilutes the nutrients. On the other hand, fruit juices keep your body hydrated and the water helps in keep you satiated for longer. The bottom line is that, when the body is being deprived of certain foods, fruits help by meeting the daily nutrition demands to keep body metabolism at optimal rates. ALSO READ: Best Food Pairings for Weight Loss: Top 5 super food pairs to loose weight faster Also Read - Weight Loss Tips: 3 Healthy Habits That are Essential For Permanent Weight Loss


These are the top 10 best fruits to include in your weight loss diet: Also Read - ‘Psycho’ or ‘Schizo? Labels or Language? Time to Change These Pseudo-clinical Terms


1. Tomatoes



Contrary to popular belief, tomatoes are fruits and not vegetables. Red fruits are rich in flavanoids, which tomatoes are packed with. They’re magical when it comes to aiding weight loss as they reverse the resistance to leptin. Leptin is a protein which prevents our bodies from losing weight and tomatoes fight them, making these delicious savoury fruits the perfect allies for those wanting to shed kilos faster. Beware: Canned tomatoes and ketchups are not real tomaotes and are loaded with preservatives and sugars, which will make you fatter, instead of burning belly fat.


2. Avocados



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Avocados are weight loss super foods, and are packed with heart healthy fats and anti-oxidants. Avocados are important in a weight loss diet, as most people don’t get enough of the healthy fats. Healthy fats help in keeping the body metabolism rate at its optimal levels. Moreover, healthy fats also increase the levels of testosterone in the body, which is one of the first hormones linked with weight loss in both men and women. Avocados are also rich in nutrients and minerals like Vitamin C, Vitamin B-6, Magnesium, etc.


3. Oranges



Oranges are effective weight loss fruits which are also yummy and nutritious. They are low on calories and rich in fiber and potassium, as well as cancer-fighting citrus limonoids. It’s also extremely rich in Vitamin C, which is required for the repair and growth of important tissues in the body, like skin, cartilage, tendons, ligaments, and blood vessels. Eat the fruit raw to maximise its benefits. ALSO READ: Best midnight snacks for weight loss: Top 10 yummy and guilt-free foods you can snack on in the night


4. Watermelon



The yummy and refreshing water melon is a wonder fruit when it comes to weight loss. It is low in calories and high in water content, which makes up 90 per cent of its weight. A 100 gm serving of watermelon contains as low as 30 calories! Moreover, they’re rich in belly fat burning amino acids called arginine. They keep you hydrated and satiated for longer periods of time, preventing the need to reach for food more often. It’s also rich in potassium, which is important for normal heart and muscular function.


5. Strawberries



Strawberries are also one of the most yummy and nutritious fruits out there. These lovely-looking and flavourful fruits are super rich in anti-oxidants and Vitamin C and are also responsible for raising the levels of HDL or good fat in the body. Blend them in with your fruit smoothies, or add some frozen strawberries to your yogurt or oatmeal porridge in the morning to derive maximum benefits from these fat cutting super fruits.


6. Guava



Guavas help maintain blood sugar levels and are great for diabetics. They are extremely high in fiber, and hence, increase the time period of satiety, preventing you from snacking on often unhealthy foods. Guavas also aid digestion and maintain bowel movements. They are also rich in vitamin C, lycopene and antioxidants, all of which aid cancer prevention and skin inflammation as well. ALSO READ: Detox Water Recipes for Weight Loss: Top 5 easy home made detox water recipes to burn fat faster!


7. Lime



Limes, which are the most common garnishing fruits, are rich in flavonoids, limonoids and antioxidants and are also important for aiding digestive processes. They are great sources of Vitamin C and fiber as well, and hence keep you full for longer. Limes make a great ingredient for detox water drinks which aid in weight loss, as one glass of such a drink only contains as many as 11 calories, while providing you with the necessary nutrients important for optimal metabolism. 


8. Lemon



The elder brother of the lime, lemon is also a great weight loss aiding fruit, which is extremely rich in Vitamin C. One single lemon can fulfill the entire daily requirement of Vitamin C for your body! Lemon also helps maintaining the metabolic rate at optimal rates. They are rich in citrus limonoids, which disarm cancer cells, particularly in the colon and the breast. Drink lemon infused water to keep the metabolism humming throughout the day.


9. Pears



Pears are your friends during the weight loss days, as one single pear fruits can fulfill as much as 24 per cent of your daily fiber intake requirement! Studies have also shown that women who ate at least three pears per day, ate lesser and hence were less likely to pile on unnecessary calories. It’s also free of fat, cholesterol and potassium, and is also low on calories. One medium sized pear contains only as much as 100 calories. ALSO READ: How to lose weight post pregnancy? Top 10 Weight Loss Foods to shed kilos faster after delivery


10. Grapefruit



Grapefruit is a wonder fruit and is rich in phytochemicals and vitamin C, both of which fight diseases and burn belly fat. According to one particular study, people who ate one grapefruit before their meals for six weeks, lost an inch of belly fat on their waists. Starting your day with half a wedge of grapefruit can set you up for a great day of belly fat burning.

 Is it OK to drink grapefruit juice everyday?

Grapefruit is a popular citrus fruit known for its sweet and sour flavor. Grapefruit can be tricky to eat, so many people turn to juicing to enjoy the fruit. Fortunately, grapefruit juice is packed with health benefits and makes a great addition to your daily breakfast or afternoon snack.




According to Healthline, grapefruits are low in calories but high in nutrients. One medium-sized grapefruit contains just over 100 calories. However, that same amount of fruit packs in over 100% of your recommended daily intake of vitamin C, as well as over 50% of your recommended daily intake of vitamin A. Eating grapefruit will give you potassium, thiamine, folate, and magnesium as well. While it is low in protein, grapefruit contains a decent amount of fiber. However, drinking the juice alone won't give you those benefits because most of the fiber is found in the pulp of the fruit. Finally, grapefruit contains various antioxidant plant compounds. These have many health benefits, including reducing the risk of developing many diseases. Drinking grapefruit juice every day may boost your immune system, keep you hydrated, and reduce your risk of developing some diseases.




Why you should eat the entire fruit

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Although grapefruit juice alone certainly has some benefits, you'll get the most out of this fruit by eating the entire thing. Grapefruit contains a decent amount of fiber and water, both of which can contribute to better digestion (via Medical News Today). Fiber can also help with appetite control, which may aid weight loss efforts. 



When eating a whole grapefruit, don't shy away from the pith, which is the white part between the flesh of the fruit and the peel. "That [pith] is very rich in antioxidants and nutrients and also soluble fiber which is going to help you feel fuller and impact your glucose reactions," Wesley Delbridge, RD, a Phoenix-based dietitian, told Health. While the pith can have a bitter taste, it's worth eating if you can push past the flavor. Drinking grapefruit juice alone may also spike your blood sugar, as the juice contains all the sugar from the fruit without any fiber. "Grapefruit juice is great but at the end of the day, the entire fruit has pectin and rind and all the parts of it," Delbridge said.



Having a glass of grapefruit juice is a great way to enjoy a variety of nutrients, but eat the entire fruit if you can. You'll get the most benefits that way.


Read More: https://www.healthdigest.com/678700/when-you-drink-grapefruit-juice-every-day-this-is-what-happens/?utm_campaign=clip

Does grapefruit shrink your stomach?

LIFESTYLE NEWS - Studies have shown that eating specific fruits help burn fat efficiently. 


Here are five of the many fruits that assist with burning fat and that are easily available and easy on the pocket.


Eating fruit is a great way to start burning fat and keep sweet cravings under control. Research shows that fruit intake is positively correlated with weight loss.


In addition, fruits are convenient as they can be eaten anywhere at anytime – for breakfast, lunch or supper or as an in-between snack. They contain natural sugars, but unlike energy bars and diet snacks they don’t contain chemicals, preservatives and artificial sweeteners.

10 Health Benefits of Grapefruits



Lemon


Lemons are excellent liver detoxifiers that also alkalize the body. Maintaining a healthy liver is necessary for the body’s ability to digest and burn fat. Lemons prevent the accumulation of fat in the body.


A glass of warm water with lemon first thing in the morning helps reduce the fat content of the body.


Grapefruit


This low-sugar fruit has many health benefits, including weight loss. Research has shown that eating half a grapefruit before meals reduces belly fat and lowers irregular cholesterol levels.


In a 12-week study, people who were overweight consumed half a fresh grapefruit before a meal for 12 weeks. They lost about five kilograms.


Another study with 91 obese patients was conducted to find out how grapefruit affected body weight, insulin resistance and metabolic syndrome. They found that those who ate half a fresh grapefruit before meals (meals had no restriction) lost 1.5 kilograms in 12 weeks.


Apple


Apples are one of the most fibre-rich foods found in nature. They enhance metabolism and are an integral part of reducing belly fat. The pectin in apples restrict cells from absorbing fat.


They are a healthy snack that keeps you full between meals. The best way to eat them is raw and fresh. You could also add them to a salad.


Avocado


The fats in avocados signal the body to stop spiking blood sugar. Spiking blood sugar causes the body to store fat. Loaded with healthy omega-9 fatty acids (the same fats found in olive oil and olives), avocados speed up the conversion of fat into energy and boost metabolism. Avocados are high in both fat and fibre, which affects feeling full.


Banana


Bananas are great for burning stubborn belly fat as they contain “resistant starch” that helps burn fat and controls appetite. They are packed with fibre that also helps us remain satiated, thus helping the body burn fat. The fibres in bananas help block the carbohydrates from getting absorbed in the body. This enables the body to burn fat as energy instead of the carbs. Bananas are a rich source of potassium that helps in building muscles, which also leads to fat burning. Their high magnesium content can help with digestion problems and bloating.

Is drinking grapefruit juice good for losing weight?

The grapefruit diet was among one of the first fad diets to be introduced to the public.


Popularized as the “Hollywood diet,” the grapefruit diet involves eating grapefruit or drinking its juice with every meal.


Supporters of the diet claim grapefruit can help burn fat, quickly leading to weight loss in as few as 12 days. But there’s limited research to support these claims.


This article explores the research behind the grapefruit diet and whether a grapefruit diet is effective and safe for weight loss.


What is the grapefruit diet?

Unlike single food diets like the cabbage soup diet, the grapefruit diet consists of more than just grapefruit.


The diet calls for a protein-rich meal plan that incorporates a grapefruit or grapefruit juice at every meal.


The grapefruit diet promises quick and rapid weight loss due to claims that grapefruit has fat-burning enzymes.


Supporters of the diet believe you can lose as much as 10 pounds in 12 days.


Despite anecdotal evidence, there’s no research that supports claims of this fat-burning enzyme.


SUMMARY

The grapefruit diet incorporates grapefruit into every meal and promises rapid weight loss due to fat-burning enzymes found in grapefruits. However, there’s no research to support this claim.



How to follow the grapefruit diet

There are multiple versions of guidelines for the diet, but many sources claim it should last 2 or 3 weeks.


Every version is low in carbohydrates and calories and high in protein.


In some versions, the diet calls for consuming no more than 800 calories per day.


Generally, people following the grapefruit diet can prepare their foods however they like, including with spices, salad dressings, or butter.


Examples of meals include:


Breakfast: two boiled eggs, two slices of bacon, and 1/2 grapefruit or 8 ounces of grapefruit juice

Lunch: salad with dressing, any meat in any amount, and 1/2 grapefruit or 8 ounces of grapefruit juice

Dinner: any kind of meat prepared any way, salad or red and green vegetables, coffee or tea, and 1/2 grapefruit or 8 ounces of grapefruit juice

Bedtime snack: 8 ounces of skim milk

SUMMARY

Multiple versions of the grapefruit diet exist, but every version is high in protein and low in carbohydrates and calories. Some versions limit you to just 800 calories per day.


Benefits

Incorporating low calorie, highly nutritious foods like grapefruit into your diet is a smart and healthy choice — not just for weight loss, if that’s your goal, but for your overall health.


A single grapefruit contains over 60% of your recommended daily intake of vitamin C.


Vitamin C has antioxidant properties known to protect and strengthen your immune system (1Trusted Source).


In addition to protecting your immune system, research shows that grapefruit consumption is associated with higher intake of magnesium, potassium, dietary fiber, and improved diet quality (2Trusted Source).


Fiber and antioxidant-rich fruits like grapefruit may help protect against heart disease and stroke (3Trusted Source, 4Trusted Source).


Grapefruit’s fiber-rich content may also help you feel fuller and eat fewer calories throughout the day (5), which may help with weight loss.


Although grapefruit has long been associated with weight loss (6Trusted Source), more research is needed to support this claim.


Since no clearly established guidelines for the grapefruit diet exist, it’s impossible to evaluate the full benefits of this diet.


SUMMARY

Grapefruits are low in calories and highly nutritious. That said, more research is needed to support claims that they can help with weight loss.


Downsides

Although grapefruits are a low calorie, nutrient-dense option with many health benefits, this diet is problematic for other reasons.


There’s no evidence of magical fat-burning enzymes associated with grapefruits.


Quick, temporary weight loss associated with the grapefruit diet is likely due to the low calorie and low carb intake (7Trusted Source). This would result in quick, temporary weight loss even without the grapefruit.


While low-calorie diets may result in initial weight loss, they’re rarely successful for those seeking long-term results.


There are health drawbacks, too.


Low calorie diets can weaken your bones, lower your metabolism, and cause fatigue, muscle loss, and nutrient deficiencies (8Trusted Source, 9Trusted Source, 10Trusted Source, 11Trusted Source).


Another negative aspect of the diet plan is its limitations.


Twelve days on such a restricted plan may be possible, but eating the same foods and such few calories every day could lead some people to ultimately abandon the plan.


The grapefruit diet is also ambiguous. With multiple versions, it’s bound to cause confusion among followers.


In addition, most salad dressings and meats you can eat on the grapefruit diet — especially the daily morning bacon — are high in saturated fats and cholesterol.


SUMMARY

Low calorie diets like the grapefruit diet may result in initial weight loss, but they have their share of health drawbacks. The restrictive diet is also unsustainable, limiting, and confusing.


Is the grapefruit diet effective for weight loss?

Although claims of some magical fat-burning enzyme in grapefruits aren’t backed by research, studies have found grapefruit to be positively associated with weight loss.


One study found that participants who consumed grapefruit daily with meals experienced reduced waist size (12Trusted Source).


A 2014 study found that body weight, waist circumference, and body mass index (BMI) were lower among female grapefruit consumers when compared to non-consumers (13Trusted Source).


More current research is needed to determine the connection between grapefruit consumption and weight loss.


Although quick and temporary weight loss is possible on the grapefruit diet, it’s probably due to the fact that you’re consuming less than 1,000 calories a day (14Trusted Source).

Grapefruit Juice weight loss | Juices for weight loss



Promises of losing 10 pounds in 12 days is unrealistic and unsustainable.


You may initially lose weight on this diet. But studies show that low calorie diets rarely keep weight off for good (15Trusted Source, 16Trusted Source).


SUMMARY

Studies have found grapefruit can help with weight loss, but weight loss on the grapefruit diet may be due to consuming fewer calories.


More current research is needed to determine the connection between grapefruit and weight loss.


WERBUNG



Is it safe?

Grapefruit juice and fresh grapefruit can be part of a balanced, healthy diet (17Trusted Source).


But grapefruit can also interfere with certain medications, including:


some statin drugs that lower cholesterol, such as Zocor (simvastatin) and Lipitor (atorvastatin)

some drugs that lower blood pressure, such as Procardia and Adalat CC (both nifedipine)

some organ-transplant rejection drugs, such as Sandimmune and Neoral (both cyclosporine)

some anti-anxiety drugs, such as buspirone

some corticosteroids that treat Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis, such as Entocort EC and Uceris (both budesonide)

some drugs that treat abnormal heart rhythms, such as Pacerone and Nexterone (both amiodarone)

some antihistamines, such as Allegra (fexofenadine)

Grapefruit juice tends to interfere with the action of these drugs because it contains a class of chemicals called furanocoumarins.


Studies show that furanocoumarins may increase the blood levels of over 85 medications (18).


By slowing down how your body normally breaks down medications in your gut and liver, grapefruit can increase the side effects of these drugs, increasing your risk for complications.


For other drugs, such as antihistamines, grapefruit may have the opposite effect, reducing the drug’s effectiveness (19Trusted Source).


Ask your doctor or pharmacist if you can have fresh grapefruit or grapefruit juice while taking these and other medications.


SUMMARY

Grapefruit can be part of a healthy diet, but it can also interfere with certain medications. Ask your doctor before consuming grapefruit when taking medication.


The bottom line

Outside of a couple of small studies, there’s no evidence to suggest there’s any magical power found in grapefruit other than the fact that it’s a low calorie, highly nutritious citrus fruit.


While this diet may help you drop pounds quickly, the weight will likely return as quickly as it left.


It’s a quick fix without any real potential of long-term sustainability.


Well-rounded diets incorporate a variety of healthy foods and fruits.


Instead of focusing just on grapefruits, aim for the recommended 2 to 2.5 cups of fruits per day (20Trusted Source).


Grapefruits can be part of these servings — but you don’t need to consume them at every meal.


The Promise

The grapefruit diet has outlasted most fad diets. People were even trying it back in the 1930s.


Its fans claim that grapefruit contains certain enzymes that, when eaten before other foods, help burn off fat.


The diet, which has several variations, lasts 10-12 days and claims to help you lose as much as 10 pounds.


Before you head for the citrus aisle, you need to get the facts, especially about the diet’s fat-burning claim.


What You Can Eat and What You Can't

You'd better like grapefruit -- a lot. Most versions of this diet recommend eating it with every meal.


The classic version of the diet involves:


Cutting back on sugar and carbs (including rice, potatoes, and pasta)

Avoiding certain foods, such as celery and white onion

Eating more of foods that are high in protein, fat, and/or cholesterol (such as eggs, pork, and red meat)

Eating grapefruit or drinking grapefruit juice before or with every meal

Most variations also cut calories, some to as low as 800 calories per day.


On the diet, you also drink 8 glasses of water and 1 cup of coffee daily.


Level of Effort: Medium

Some versions of the grapefruit diet are really strict. Others are fairly flexible. Either way, you'll need to have a taste for the tart fruit.


Limitations: These depend on what version of the grapefruit diet you do.


Some versions curb carbs and bulk up on high-fat, high-cholesterol foods or cut calories drastically. Others just ask you to eat grapefruit at or before every meal, and you can pretty much eat whatever you want otherwise. The classic version involves combining foods (to get the alleged fat-burning effect), such as bacon and salad.


Cooking and shopping: You'll be putting a lot of grapefruit in your shopping cart, but there's not a lot of extra prep work.

What Will Happen If You Start Eating Grapefruit Every Day (Benefits and Harms of Grapefruits)



Packaged foods and meals? No.


In-person meetings? No.


Exercise: Not required.



Does It Allow for Dietary Restrictions or Preferences?

Vegetarians and vegans: The original version of the diet includes meat. Vegetarians and vegans would need to tweak the diet to make it work for them.


Gluten-free: Some versions of the diet cut back on carbs, including carbs that contain gluten. But the diet doesn't ban gluten. You'll need to check food labels if you're trying to avoid gluten completely.


What Else You Should Know

Cost: Grapefruit doesn't cost a lot, depending on the season and where you live.


Support: This is a diet you do on your own.


What Kathleen Zelman, MPH, RD, Says:

Does It Work?


Sorry, but grapefruit doesn't burn fat.


There have been a few studies about grapefruit and weight loss. In one, obese people who ate half a grapefruit before meals for 12 weeks lost more weight than those who didn't eat or drink any grapefruit products.


It may be that the water in grapefruit helps you feel full, and then you eat less. But if you're hoping that grapefruit will melt fat, you're going to be disappointed.



Trying to lose 10 pounds in 10 days isn't healthy, nor is it recommended by experts. Even if it worked, you'd be likely to gain it all back, as with any fad diet. For lasting results, it's much better to lose weight at a slower, steadier rate. Focus on a plan you can live with for life.


Is It Good for Certain Conditions?


No, this is not a recommended plan for any conditions. While you may lose weight, it's unlikely you'd keep it off, because this diet isn't doable long-term.


Grapefruit can interfere with certain prescription drugs, including statins (cholesterol drugs) and some blood pressure drugs. It increases the effect of these drugs and can cause adverse effects hours before and hours after taking these medications.

How to Cut a Grapefruit 5 Ways! The BEST Way to Eat a Grapefruit!



If you have a health condition, ask your doctor about whether you should avoid eating grapefruit or drinking its juice.


The Final Word


Don’t bother with this diet. Such a limited variety of foods in small portions is the prescription for boredom. It's exactly the formula to cause most dieters to give up trying to lose weight.


Grapefruit can be part of a healthy weight loss diet because it's nutritious, not because of any mysterious fat-burning properties. If you're a grapefruit lover, reap the benefits of this super-nutritious fruit by enjoying a serving before meals. A half grapefruit or a glass of grapefruit juice before meals may help fill you up, so you'll eat fewer calories at meals and potentially lose weight.

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