Yes, this lowly fruit (depending on the height of your tree) is practically being called Public Enemy # 1, by the FDA and a recent article in “Medscape Today“.
Interesting, isn’t it? I look out at my lovely little grapefruit tree, laden with juicy pink grapefruit, and I feel the need to express my gratitude for this lovely fruit.
But, quickly heartbreak follows as I realize that the days of grapefruit – filled with health and “yummyness” (new word definition: “yummy for the tummy and tongue”) – will soon be over.
This is true for anyone taking pharmaceuticals. For your protection, if you are someone taking any prescribed drug, it is in your best interest to find out which ones may cause an interaction with grapefruit, and other similar fruit.
It’s been known for a number of years that “anything” grapefruit (juice, seed extract, whole fruit, etc…) can either diminish the potency of the pharmaceutical, or increase its toxicity.
The sad part is there is a growing list of new pharmaceuticals that also interact with grapefruit. You would think that the whiz scientists could create “new” drugs that don’t interact. It would sure help the grapefruit industry, if consumers were once again safe to enjoy their morning grapefruit without guilt or repercussion.
As for me, I am going to enjoy my tree and the fruit thereof – with gratitude that I am not on any pharmaceuticals. Thankfully, I can enjoy the health benefits of grapefruit (such as vitamin C).
However, for anyone on blood pressure medication, cholesterol medication, and even birth control pills, I would suggest reviewing the links below. The articles can provide critical health information before “it’s too late”.
http://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/775217
http://www.fda.gov/ForConsumers/ConsumerUpdates/ucm292276.htm
