GRAPEFRUIT JUICE HELPS WITH WEIGHT LOSS, STUDY FINDS

A 12-week pilot study conducted by the Nutrition and Metabolic Research Center at the Scripps Clinic in Del Mar, Calif., showed that grapefruit appears to help people lose weight.

"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. Ken Fujioka, who led the research. "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."

The study looked at the effects of grapefruit juice, fresh grapefruit and grapefruit capsules on body weight and metabolic factors, such as insulin secretion, said Judy Sheard, center spokesperson. The study monitored 79 people, and those who ate half a grapefruit with each meal lost an average of 3.6 pounds. Participants who drank a serving of grapefruit juice three times a week lost an average of 3.3 pounds.

The fresh, whole grapefruit group also had a statistically significant reduction in insulin production.

"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 Florida Citrus Commission.sponsored the $150,000 study.

For more information, contact the Florida Dept. of Citrus: Nicole LeBeau, +1-863-499-2541, or Stacy McNairy, +1-312-729-4468.