Who would think that a subtropical fruit such as grapefruit could be beneficial to winter wellness? I learned many nutritional treasures about grapefruit as an 8-year resident in Arizona. Did you know that grapefruit:
- provides an alkaline reaction in the body, helping balance the body’s acidity from winter’s heavier foods
- supports healthy digestion and elimination; dissolves congestion in
Ah-h, the pleasures of Arizona!
the body
- is a good source of flavonoids, potassium, calcium, magnesium, Vitamin C, pectin and water-soluble fiber
- makes a soothing hot beverage that relieves discomforts of allergies, cold & flu and strep throat
To prepare Hot Grapefruit Drink:
- Wash outer rind of grapefruit; cut fruit in half
- Fill 1-quart saucepan with 2-cups water and put on medium heat on stove top
- Squeeze juice from 1/2 grapefruit (reserve other 1/2 for later use) into water in saucepan. Squeeze thoroughly letting pulp release into water. Place rind into saucepan to infuse nutrients from rind and membrane.
- Simmer just to boiling. Remove rind with tongs. Pour hot juice carefully into mug. Add 1/2 tsp. locally produced honey OR pure maple syrup. Sip leisurely. Breathe deeply. Enjoy the winter.
Gotta go, my grapefruit is simmering!
