Lower Cholesterol with Low Calories in Grapefruit

If you are looking to lower your cholesterol, look no further. The tiny number of calories in grapefruit will help you lower your LDL cholesterol, the type of cholesterol linked to hardening of the arteries and heart attacks,while helping you stay lean. The potassium in grapefruit helps regulate blood pressure and other body functions. It is packed with vitamins, minerals, fiber, and water, all essential to maintaining a healthy lifestyle, especially one that includes exercise. Grapefruit will keep you feeling and looking younger, as its high vitamin C content will support your immune system and help maintain skin elasticity.Smokers are especially in need of vitamin C, for smoking tobacco lowers skin's elasticity. Red and pink varieties, especially Texas's own Ruby Red variety are high in beta carotene, which is key to maintaining eye health and function. Red and pink varieties are also a good source of lycopene, a powerful antioxidant. All varieties are a good source of calcium, which helps maintain bone
density and reduce the risk of osteoporosis.

An amazingly versatile fruit from the zest to the pulp, the calories in grapefruit pack maximum bang for minimal buck. It's an excellent choice for weight watchers, those looking to start more healthful eating habits, or gourmets looking for the next sensation in taste. Infused in vinegar, the peels can add pizazz to a vinaigrette. Infused vinegars make excellent marinades, or any place where you want a low-calorie flavor zing. Layer grapefruit sections with low-fat yogurt for a low-calorie dessert.  Jazz up store-bought poultry seasoning with grapefruit zest, sprinkle onto chicken or turkey and roast or broil for an exciting twist on an old favorite. Take advantage of hot culinary trends- coat carrot, celeriac or parsnip medallions with a grapefruit juice reduction made into a glaze. Essential oils are also the next thing in culinary schools. A few drops of  grapefruit essential oil in a  pound cake recipe will bring a slightly unusual note of citrus. The flavor of grapefruit features prominently in the most sophisticated recipes for beverages.

You can sweeten grapefruit without a significant increase in the calories in grapefruit treats. Texas is known for its Ruby Red variety, a naturally sweeter sort than its paler cousins, and it is often used for juice.  The natural sugars of the grapefruit can be enhanced by sprinkling salt on and broiling until the natural sugars caramelize on the surface slightly. Sweeteners like aspartame or sucralose can be used to minimize calorie and sugar consumption. As honey packs a powerful sweetening punch, orange blossom honey would be a particularly good pairing. The citrus notes in the honey would be enhanced by the grapefruit, and orange blossom honey is widely available. Cranberry honey is also a good choice, but most varietals will work just fine. Whether sweetened or plain, grapefruit is a treat for your body, inside and out.