![]() – Naringenin also increases the entrance of fats to the cells to be burned and converted into energy. – It increases the antioxidant activity in the blood, avoiding the synthesis of free radicals and the formation of atheromas in the arterial walls. – It thins the blood and increases anticoagulant activity by reducing the likelihood of cardiovascular diseases. In addition, the high fiber content of grapefruit traps and helps eliminate excess cholesterol consumed through food. – Naringenin stimulates the liver to destroy the excess fats present in the body, which causes a reduction in the concentration of LDL cholesterol. In trying to identify its mechanism of action, they saw that naringenin was acting on targets identical to those of fibrates (which lower the level of fat in the blood) and statins (against cholesterol).Īccording to research carried out by a group of scientists from the Brock University of Canada and published in Biochemical and Biophysical Research Communications, it is suggested that: This decline is certainly lower than that obtained by current treatments, but it is significant. The hypocholesterolemic properties of naringenin, which is responsible for the bitter taste of grapefruit, have already been demonstrated in animal models, but also in a small clinical study cited by researchers: in about thirty hypercholesterolemic patients, this substance has reduced by 17% LDL-cholesterol (the “bad” cholesterol). Properties naringenin in grapefruit against high cholesterol An idea that they present as “attractive”, this product “nontoxic and inexpensive” has, in addition, anti-inflammatory effects. According to the researchers, it could, therefore, be used as a dietary supplement and “find its place naturally in the routine treatment of hyperlipidemia”. And it would work like several classes of medications currently prescribed to control cholesterol levels in the blood. According to his work, naringenin – a flavonoid, a substance that has strong antioxidant properties – is at the origin of its cholesterol-lowering activity. You can have your say on this story in the comments section below.The benefits of grapefruit against excess cholesterol have been confirmed by Jonathan Goldwasser’s team at the Center for Engineering in Medicine in Boston, Massachusetts. It warns patients not to stop taking their medication without consulting their GP first. The NHS explains: "If your usual diet includes grapefruit or grapefruit juice and you've been prescribed a medicine that's affected, speak to your GP or pharmacist." The government regulator even confirmed that "interactions may increase the risk of serious adverse reactions or, in some cases, reduce the effectiveness of treatment."Īnd whilst its advisable for patients on statins to avoid - or at least reduce - consumption of grapefruit juice, officials recommend consulting with medical professionals if there's concern. Specific warnings about combing such statins and grapefruit juice has also been issued by the Medicines and Healthcare Regulatory Agency (MHRA) within the last decade. NICE even states that the severity of interaction between grapefruit juice and simvastatin is considered "severe," with its manufacturer advising customers to avoid the juice entirely - just as the NHS does. In particular, there is evidence that the product "increases the exposure to atorvastatin simvastatin". Patients taking Simvastatin however are warned to avoid consuming grapefruit due to health risks.Īccording to the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE), statin manufacturers themselves have recommended caution over grapefruit juice. ![]() The health provider suggests that those prescribed Atorvastatin should only drink the juice in small quantities, with the recommendation of below 1.2 litres a day. It warns that those taking certain stations should not combine such medication with grapefruit juice, with doctors advising patients to "avoid it completely or only consume small quantities."Ĭurrently, the NHS states that it is safe to consume grapefruit products if you're taking Fluvastatin, Pravastatin or Rosuvastatin. This means that the medication may be more 'active' than intended with the NHS explaining that "this can increase the risk of side effects or alter the effect the medicine has." Health experts state that grapefruit contains a chemical that interferes with the body's ability to break down medication, known as drug metabolism. The citrus fruit typically increases the level of medication in the blood, particularly when taken in juice form. There's a history of concern regarding grapefruit consumption and its effect on prescription medication. Health officials have often warned against consuming grapefruit juice whilst on statins (Image: Getty Images/iStockphoto)
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