Lose Weight with Grapefruit Smoothies Polyphenol Power

Want to create a healthy smoothie with the power of polyphenols? Incorporate Grapefruit.

The compounds of grapefruit can give metabolism a surge by activating enzymes involved in cellular energy. Studies show that combining polyphenols from a variety of fruit and vegetables sources may reduce fat mass.

Polyphenols are phytochemicals found in fruits such as grapefruit, blackberries and strawberries. As a product of the plant cell, phytochemicals are secondary metabolites. Their function is of great importance to the health of the plant, offering protection from infections, ultraviolet radiation and predatory insects.

The class of phytochemicals known as polyphenols have several phenol groups - aromatic organic compounds with attached hydroxyl groups. Such traits as color of fruit and sweetness of taste are determined by polyphenols. Currently, thousands of polyphenols have been identified, leaving many more to be discovered. Phenolic acids, flavonoids and stilbenes are chief categories of polyphenols.

Regarding human health, the properties of polyphenols have been shown to be of natural assistance. With their functioning as antioxidants, polyphenols can lower inflammation and neutralize free radicals. Here, antioxidants can counteract the damaging effects of oxidative stress. Oxidation is a normal process caused by metabolism, inflammation and external occurrences like pollution. However, too many oxidized molecules can cause a free radical frenzy of electron stealing. Antioxidants can help steady the unstable molecules, thereby protecting cellular function.

Notably, the pink grapefruit is a polyphenol playground. This red and pink hues of this variety of grapefruit contains lycopene - a carotenoid with high antioxidant capabilities. Limonoids help to create enzymes of detoxification, while the pectin content can reduce levels of harmful cholesterol. The flavonoid, Naringenin, is a subject of continual studies in its connection to fat tissue function. The result being that naringenin found in pink grapefruit may disrupt adipose tissue expansion.

Try this simple smoothie in the morning. Polyphenols abound.

- 1/2 Cup Black Raspberries
- 4 Strawberries
- 1/2 Grapefruit Wedge - With Pith
- 1/4 Cup Kale

This smoothie is a low calorie treat with only 115 calories. Fiber contents are high with 8 grams. The nutritional value of Vitamins A, C and K are plentiful, plus the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory power of combined polyphenols. The mineral manganese is well represented as well.

By incorporating grapefruit into a smoothie, weight loss goals can be achieved through the workings of  polyphenols that enhance metabolism and hinder fat mass growth.

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Healthy Smoothies For A Beautiful You

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Healthy Smoothie Recipes For Weight Loss

Low Glycemic Index Smoothies

Healthy smoothie recipes that have a low glycemic index help maintain blood sugar levels. And in turn provide for more effective weight loss.  With these good blood sugar concentrations, healthy smoothies are a delicious method for nutrient absorption and prevention of health upsets.

The glycemic index shows the rate at which food breaks down into sugar in the bloodstream. Glucose delivers energy to the body's cells by way of the bloodstream.  Foods with a high glycemic index are quickly raise the level of blood glucose. The detrimental consequence being long-term health problems and weight management difficulties including excess belly fat.

Even with an acceptable weight number on a scale, too much belly fat or visceral fat can be dangerous. Disturbances to a balanced system can result from extra weight around your core. High blood pressure and diabetes are two such examples. In relation to hypertension, abdominal fat may affect hormones that regulate the constriction of blood vessels.

Diabetes can occur due to an increase of triglycerides from the liver's fatty acids and a decline in control of blood sugar by insulin.  However, homeostasis can be achieved with healthy smoothies, keeping hormones in check. The pancreas and liver will appreciate not being overburdened.

A general reference follows:

Glycemic Index – Range from 0 to 100
70 -100 – High glycemic index
55 – 69 – Medium
0 – 50 – Low and Optimal Range

Try this simple recipe to support a low-glycemic index.

8 Strawberries
1/2 Cup Raspberries
1 Celery Stalk
1/4 Cup Filtered Water

This smoothie settles, containing significant amounts of Vitamin C, Vitamin K, manganese, copper and fiber.  Celery and raspberries are low in carbohydrates, while strawberries have a glycemic index of 40.

Begin the day with healthy smoothie recipes. A diet generating great blood glucose levels will promote overall health especially in the brain. To get a low glycemic index value, make smoothies with fruits like raspberries, strawberries, pears, peaches, plums and apples. Add celery, spinach and broccoli for a vegetable supplement.

Enjoy!

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