Grapefruit, known as chakotra in Urdu, is a fruit that comes from the orange and lemon families. It is available in green, yellow, and orange and has a tangy, slightly bitter taste.
To learn more about chakotra and its benefits, continue reading the article.
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Key takeaways
- Grapefruit is a citrus fruit rich in vitamins C and A.
- Grapefruit contains potassium, which helps lower cholesterol levels and high blood pressure.
- It contains fiber and lots of water, which makes you full and reduces your calorie intake, helping you lose weight.
- Grapefruit juice is also good for the skin as it contains vitamin C that makes your skin radiant, and reduces hyperpigmentation.
- Grapefruit is also known as “chakotra” in Urdu.
- Other notable nutrients in grapefruit are calcium, lycopene, and phosphorus.
Grapefruit may help slow down the development of certain conditions, such as tumors and cancer, as it contains bioflavonoids, fewer calories and fiber. Grapefruit has several health benefits that will be discussed in this blog.
Chakotra fruit benefits (chakotra ke fayde)
The benefits of chakotra (grapefruit) are listed below:
1. Strengthens the immune system
Grapefruit contains copper, zinc, iron and vitamin B, which help strengthen the immune system and help the body fight off infections.
It is an excellent source of vitamin C and antioxidants that prevent the spread of harmful bacteria and viruses in the body.
2. Aids weight loss
Grapefruit and its juice can help you lose weight as it has fewer calories, is high in fiber, and has a high water content.
The high fiber content in grapefruit also indirectly supports weight loss by making you feel full, so you eat less.
3. Highly nutritious and low in calories
Grapefruit is highly nutritious as it contains several vitamins and minerals like potassium, calcium, sugar, phosphorus, etc.
It also contains fiber and antioxidants that help to regulate weight and blood sugar levels and prevent damage caused by harmful cells.
Nutrition experts frequently recommend grapefruit as part of a weight loss regimen due to its low-calorie count and high water content.
4. Diabetes-related benefits
Insulin is a hormone that controls the sugar level in the blood. When cells of the body do not respond to insulin, it is called insulin resistance, which eventually leads to diabetes.
Thanks to its low glycemic index (GI), grapefruit can be a good addition to a diabetes-friendly diet. However, people with diabetes should consume it in moderation to prevent blood sugar spikes.
According to Healthline, grapefruit may help reduce the risk of diabetes by preventing insulin resistance.
5. Promotes heart health
Grapefruit is a good source of potassium and fiber. For this reason, it may help manage cholesterol and blood pressure, which can eventually reduce the risk of heart disease and improve heart health.
6. Good for the skin
Grapefruit juice is rich in Vitamin C, which shields the skin against sun damage, aging, and inflammation. Vitamin C serums are often applied to repair the skin, lighten spots, and soften the skin surface.
Grapefruit, being rich in vitamin C, is known to reduce hyperpigmentation and discoloration, as well as combat the signs of aging. Vitamin C also induces the body to produce collagen, which is good for hydrating the skin and reducing wrinkles.
7. Hydrating properties
Grapefruit has an incredibly high amount of water content at 91%. Therefore, it is a fruit that helps you stay adequately hydrated, especially in the hot summer months.
Drinking grapefruit juice can keep you refreshed, preventing dehydration and heat stroke.
Chakotra side effects
Chakotra (grapefruit) is rich in vitamin C, which may lead to nausea, diarrhea, and other stomach issues especially when consumed in excess. Chakotra is also known to interact with certain medications.
Here’s a list of the potential side effects of chakotra:
- Nausea
- Diarrhea
- Cramps
- Stomach issues
- It may interact with certain medications like atorvastatin, amlodipine, and zolpidem.
Chakotra nutritional information
Chakotra or grapefruit provides the following nutrition per 100g serving:
| Nutritional Value of Grapefruit (100g)* | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 42 |
| Carbohydrates | 11 g |
| Protein | 0.8 g |
| Fiber | 1.6 g |
| Sugar | 6.9 g |
| Fat | 0.1 g |
| Potassium | 135 mg |
| Vitamin C | 31.2 mg |
| Calcium | 22 mg |
Facts about chakotra
- This fruit is named grapefruit because it is grown in groups or clusters like grapes.
- Grapefruit is the fruit of the winter season.
- Scientifically, it is known as (Citrus ×paradisi).
Also Read: 8 Grapefruit Benefits Sexually To Uplift Your Sex Life
How to use chakotra
- Grapefruit (chakotra) can be eaten directly by peeling off the skin or cutting it in half and using a spoon to scoop out its contents.
- You can make fresh grapefruit juice at home for a healthy and thirst-quenching drink packed with vitamin C and essential nutrients.
- It can be added to smoothies.
- It can also be added in sweet and savory dishes to enhance their flavor.
- Many people like to enjoy grapefruit as part of their breakfast in the morning, but the fruit can be eaten as a snack at any time of the day.
Conclusion
Grapefruit, also called chakotra in Urdu, is a healthy and hydrating fruit with several health benefits. The benefits of chakotra include the potential to boost immunity, aid weight loss, improve heart health, enhance skin health, and provide adequate hydration.
To get the most benefit out of grapefruits, you should consume them in moderation. For any diet-related queries regarding grapefruit, you can consult qualified nutritionists online or in person through oladoc.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is grapefruit high in sugar?
It is still a low-sugar fruit, with under eleven grams of sugar in a half grapefruit. Grapefruit is also packed with vitamins A and C, two essential nutrients that help strengthen your immune system.
2. What is the ideal time to eat grapefruit?
While it’s typically eaten in the morning, a glass of grapefruit juice or a fresh grapefruit can be taken as a light snack before bed or during the day.
3. Are grapefruits good for the skin?
Yes, grapefruit may help hydrate the skin, as well as reduce skin discoloration.
