February is National Grapefruit Month, which makes it the perfect time to talk about the tangy fruit and it’s nutritional benefits for your children. The grapefruit was first spotted on the island of Barbados in 1750. A cross between a pommel and a Jamaican sweet orange, it was named for the way it grew in clusters like grapes.
Half of a medium grapefruit contains approximately 70 percent of the recommended amount of vitamin C for an adult, according to the United States Food and Drug Administration. It also contains 2 percent of the recommended daily amount of calcium for an adult. Grapefruit also contains a modest amount of dietary fiber, carbohydrates, natural fruit sugar and protein.
The health benefits of grapefruit are contained in the vitamins, water and fiber it provides.
- The fruit is rich in vitamin C, as well as in a compound known as bio-flavonoids, that helps safeguard your baby’s body against infections. Thus, keeping your child healthy and active.
- The combination of fiber, potassium, lycopene, Vitamin C and Choline in grapefruit help maintain a healthy heart.
- Grapefruit is made of 91% water, helps to keep you hydrated.
- Grapefruit is rich dietary fiber which will prevent constipation and will help with indigestion.
- It is a great source of vitamin A which helps support cell division, aiding the growth and development of your baby.
- Grapefruit also provides small doses of other beneficial nutrients and vitamins that will help your baby develop faster.
While your child may not be running to the fridge asking for grapefruit, there are some ways to incorporate the fruit into their diet.
- Grapefruit Salad – cut up the fruit, remove the skin and serve as a snack.
- Grapefruit Juice – blend it up with some water and put in a sippy cup to make it more appealing.
And always remember, that if you are considering feeding grapefruit to your child, cut the fruit into manageable pieces and stay with your child while he eats to decrease the risk of choking.
