High Fiber in the Texas Grapefruit

Image by exfordy via Flickr

The Texas Grapefruit was first cultivated in 1893 and it one of the healthiest citrus fruits on earth. Perhaps that is why the grapefruit has long been a popular diet food. In this article we are going to take a look at one particular nutritional benefit of the Texas grapefruit.

But before we begin, it is probably best to explain exactly what the Texas Grapefruit is. As we mentioned, it was first cultivated in the late 19th century. However, it would be another few decades before the first Texas grapefruit would arrive on the scene.

The date was 1929 and the grapefruit was still little more than an exotic novelty in the Lone Star State. That was until a farmer discovered a red grapefruit growing on a pink grapefruit tree. This new variety of grapefruit, later named the “Ruby,” was nothing more than a simple mutation. Fortunately, the new fruit was much sweeter than its predecessors and locals took an instant liking to it.

Well, it wasn't long before the pink and white varieties that had come before it were being replaced by the Ruby. In fact, Texas completely eliminated white and pink crops in 1962 because they believed that red Texas grapefruit was not only superior, but also more marketable.

The strategy paid off as Texas soon became known as the red grapefruit capital of the world. They even applied for and received a U.S. patent for their new variety, the first patent in history given for a fruit. Of course, it wasn't until later that scientists and nutritionists discovered the many benefits of the red Texas grapefruit.

Aside from the Vitamin C, the grapefruit is also an excellent source of fiber. Now, all fruits have fiber, but the Texas grapefruit is virtually swimming in it. On average, it has about twelve grams of fiber per serving, which is more than a third of what the average person needs on a daily basis.

There's only one catch. You have to eat the whole thing! If you have somehow never eaten a Texas grapefruit, let us briefly explain how it is done. The fruit lover will usually take a small spoon and scoop out the fresh fruit flesh. Then, after all of the segments have been removed, all that remains are the walls that once separated the fruit segments and the rind.

As you may have guessed, it is these walls that contain pretty much all of the fiber in the grapefruit. To remove them, all you have to do is peel the grapefruit like an orange and eat the walls one by one. If you happen to find them too tough or chewy, boiling them will soften them up a bit and make them easier to eat.

Why go through all the trouble? The benefits of dietary fiber intake are well established and accepted. Fiber helps maintain the digestive system by promoting healthy and regular bowel movements. There is also quite a bit of evidence to suggest that high fiber diets actually lower cholesterol levels and may prevent certain kinds of cancer.

Farm Fresh Gifts Since 1926

For nearly a century, Pittman & Davis has shared the bold, sun-kissed flavors of the Rio Grande Valley and beyond. From tree-ripened citrus to smoked meats, pastries, and handcrafted specialties, every gift reflects the land it comes from, the people who craft it, and the unforgettable taste it delivers.

Shop Now