Market Monitors, if you’re not eating the pith of your grapefruit, you’re missing out on a secret health weapon. I’m not talking about desperate measures during a food crisis, as Laura Bente describes in her recent article about Cubans making “grapefruit steaks” during hard times. No, I’m talking about tapping into the incredible prebiotic power of grapefruit pith to supercharge your gut health!
As Bente notes, “Grapefruit pith is, indeed, edible. It’s a great source of soluble dietary fiber like pectin. And we know eating lots of soluble fiber is great for controlling your blood sugar and lowering your ‘bad’ cholesterol numbers.” But it gets even better. A January 2024 study found that grapefruit pith contains a special prebiotic compound that feeds the good bacteria in your gut, leading to increased production of beneficial short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs).
Why should you care about SCFAs? As the researchers explain, “SCFAs are important little molecules that have a huge number of benefits like helping your immune system function, regulating your blood pressure, keeping your gut-wall cells strong, and more.” In other words, eating grapefruit pith is like fertilizing your internal garden and cultivating a thriving microbiome. And we all know that a healthy gut is the foundation of overall wellness and vitality.
But wait, there’s more! Bente also highlights the potential heart-protecting effects of compounds found in orange peels. “An April 2024 study found that orange peels contain a compound called feruloylputrescine… researchers found that the feruloylputrescine in the peel could basically limit the production of TMAO,” which is linked to cardiovascular disease. So don’t toss those peels – zest them up and freeze them for an easy flavor and nutrient boost.
Look, I know eating grapefruit pith or orange peels might sound a little “out there.” But the science is clear – these oft-discarded fruit parts are packed with health-promoting compounds that you’d be crazy not to take advantage of. So next time you’re enjoying a grapefruit, dig a little deeper with your spoon and scoop out some of that pith. Your gut will thank you!
Better yet, why not try your hand at making a real grapefruit “steak” like the resourceful Cubans did? Check out this video to see the crispy creation in all its glory. Trust me, your taste buds and your microbiome will be equally delighted by this ingenious dish.
The bottom line is this: in a world full of overhyped superfoods and supplements, the humblest parts of common fruits might just be the real nutritional heroes. So don’t let them go to waste! With every bite of pith or sprinkle of zest, you’re taking a stand for your health and tapping into the wisdom of traditional food practices. Now that’s something worth sinking your teeth into.
Stay vital,
The Market Monitor
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