The grapefruit is a hybrid citrus fruit developed in the 19th century in the Caribbean islands.In 1929, A. E. Henninger developed the ruby red grapefruit variety in Texas.The ruby red grapefruit's flesh is deep red and the peel is yellow with a pink blush overtone. The juice of the ruby red grapefruit provides a variety of nutritional benefits2.

Vitamin C

The vitamin C content in 8 oz. of juice is 94 mg, or 157 percent of the daily 60 mg the FDA recommends. Vitamin C stimulates the production of white blood cells in the immune system to prevent the development of infections.The body also needs vitamin C to absorb and utilize iron necessary for the oxygenation of the cells.

Vitamin A

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A 1-cup serving of ruby red grapefruit juice provides 1,087 IU of vitamin A, or 22 percent of the daily 5,000 IU the FDA recommends. Vitamin A supports the regulation of the male and female reproductive systems. It also supports the health of the mucosal layer in the sinus cavities and intestines that prevents harmful pathogens from entering and causing infections.

Potassium

The potassium content in one cup of grapefruit juice is 400 mg, or 11 percent of the 3,500 mg FDA daily value.Potassium is a mineral the body needs to balance fluid.A high sodium level in the body increases the potassium requirement, or high blood pressure can result. An estimated 95 percent of men and 75 percent of women consume more sodium than the 2,300 mg daily requirement. Researchers at the Loyola University Health System recommend consuming 4,700 mg of potassium daily to lower abnormally high blood pressure. Consult a physician prior to using potassium to regulate blood pressure.

Calories

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A 1-cup serving of ruby red grapefruit juice contains 96 calories, or about 5 percent of the standard 2,000-calorie diet. The calorie content in cola and cranberry juice is about 50 percent higher. Ruby red grapefruit juice is a nutritious and flavorful beverage that provides refreshment when mixed with carbonated water or chilled on ice.