Grapefruit

Vitamin C, vitamin A, hydrating.

Category: Fruits
Plate rating: 85/100
Glycemic index: ≈25 · Low GI
Pesticide residue: Moderate

Medicine note: Grapefruit and many common medicines

Grapefruit can change how much of some medicines reaches your blood. Read more.

What grapefruit offers

Vitamin C
Vitamin A
Hydrating

When to eat it

Breakfast.

Tip

Grapefruit interacts with many medicines — check with your pharmacist first

Blood sugar

Low GI — tends to raise blood sugar slowly. GI values are approximate and vary with ripeness, variety and preparation. If you manage diabetes, ask your care team how this food fits your plan.

Pesticide residue & peeling

Relative residue level: Moderate — a rough guide, not a lab measurement. Thick peel protects fruit, so residue on the part you eat is low. Rinse produce under running water before eating.

More fruits

BlueberriesAnthocyanin antioxidants, vitamin C & K, fiberFruits

AvocadoMonounsaturated fats, fiber, potassium; helps absorb fat-soluble vitaminsFruitsMedicine note

PomegranatePolyphenol antioxidants, vitamin C, fiber (seeds)Fruits

AppleRich in fiber, Vitamin C, antioxidantsFruits

KiwiVitamin C (more per serving than an orange), fiber, vitamin KFruits

GuavaVery high in vitamin C, fiber, potassiumFruits

Sources

Nutrient data: USDA FoodData Central (search “Grapefruit”)
Glycemic index: Glycemic Index Research and GI News (University of Sydney)
FDA: Grapefruit Juice and Some Drugs Don't Mix
MedlinePlus: Atorvastatin

Last reviewed October 2026. How we rate foods.

General information only, not medical advice. If you take medicine or manage a health condition, check with your doctor, pharmacist or a registered dietitian before changing your diet. Read our medical disclaimer.