Grapefruit Is Healthy and Generally Safe, but These 4 Groups Should Avoid It
Grapefruit is a fruit rich in essential nutrients for the body. However, not everyone should consume it.
Grapefruit belongs to the citrus family and is high in fiber, vitamin C, and antioxidants. It has a low glycemic index, making it suitable for people with diabetes, helps reduce bad LDL cholesterol, maintains healthy cholesterol levels, and supports cardiovascular health.
One medium grapefruit can provide up to 100% of the daily recommended intake of vitamin C. Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that boosts the immune system and plays an important role in collagen production, helping to keep the skin healthy.
Although grapefruit is nutritious and relatively gentle, some people should limit or avoid it to prevent potential health risks.
People with stomach and digestive problems
Grapefruit is highly acidic. Individuals with a history of stomach ulcers, frequent acid reflux, or a sensitive digestive system should limit grapefruit intake, especially on an empty stomach, as it may increase acid secretion and cause heartburn, acid reflux, stomach pain, or nausea. People with stomach issues may eat grapefruit after meals, but only in small amounts.
People with kidney disease
Grapefruit contains a high amount of potassium, an essential mineral for the body. However, people with impaired kidney function may have difficulty excreting excess potassium. Elevated potassium levels in the blood (hyperkalemia) can lead to serious complications such as heart rhythm disturbances. Therefore, individuals with kidney failure or those undergoing dialysis should limit grapefruit consumption.
People preparing for surgery
Those scheduled for surgery are advised to stop eating grapefruit several days beforehand. Grapefruit can interfere with the effects of certain medications used during surgery and may increase the risk of unwanted complications. In addition, consuming large amounts of grapefruit may raise the risk of postoperative bleeding.
People taking certain medications
People who are taking specific medications should avoid or limit grapefruit. Grapefruit contains compounds called furanocoumarins, which inhibit an important enzyme in the small intestine known as CYP3A4. This enzyme is responsible for metabolizing many medications so the body can absorb and eliminate them properly.
When this enzyme is inhibited, drug levels in the bloodstream can rise above safe limits, increasing the risk of adverse side effects.
Medications commonly affected by grapefruit include statins used to lower cholesterol, blood pressure medications, immunosuppressants, and antiarrhythmic drugs. Consuming grapefruit with these medications may lead to liver damage, excessively low blood pressure, or other serious complications.
