Grapefruit Study - J Med Food

J Med Food. 2006 Spring;9(1):49-54.

The effects of grapefruit on weight and insulin resistance: relationship to the metabolic syndrome.

Fujioka K, Greenway F, Sheard J, Ying Y.

Abstract

To study the effects of grapefruit and grapefruit products on body weight and metabolic syndrome, 91 obese patients were randomized to either placebo capsules and 7 ounces (207 mL) of apple juice, grapefruit capsules with 7 ounces (207 mL) of apple juice, 8 ounces (237 mL) of grapefruit juice with placebo capsule, or half of a fresh grapefruit with a placebo capsule three times a day before each meal. 

Metabolic syndrome parameters were measured at the beginning and end of 12 weeks. After 12 weeks, the fresh grapefruit group had lost 1.6 kg, the grapefruit juice group had lost 1.5 kg, the grapefruit capsule group had lost 1.1 kg, and the placebo group had lost 0.3 kg. The fresh grapefruit group lost significantly more weight than the placebo group (P < .05). A secondary analysis of those with the metabolic syndrome in the four treatment groups demonstrated a significantly greater weight loss in the grapefruit, grapefruit capsule, and grapefruit juice groups compared with placebo (P < .02). 

There was also a significant reduction in 2-hour post-glucose insulin level in the grapefruit group compared with placebo. 

Half of a fresh grapefruit eaten before meals was associated with significant weight loss. In metabolic syndrome patients the effect was also seen with grapefruit products. Insulin resistance was improved with fresh grapefruit. Although the mechanism of this weight loss is unknown it would appear reasonable to include grapefruit in a weight reduction diet.

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/16579728

tips to deal with eating-related issues commonly faced by cancer patients

Tips to deal with eating-related issues commonly faced by cancer patients

Many cancer patients think it is normal to lose a lot of weight during treatment, especially since chemotherapy and radiotherapy often have side effects like nausea and appetite loss.

But losing more than 5 per cent of one's body weight is unhealthy, says the Singapore Cancer Society (SCS), which has compiled a booklet to help cancer patients eat right.

Here are some tips from the society to deal with eating-related issues commonly faced by cancer patients:

1. Appetite loss

Eat several small meals a day, instead of three large meals. Try to have a bedtime snack, as it will provide extra calories but won't affect your appetite for breakfast. When it is hard to eat, drink oral nutritional supplements, as they are easy to consume.

2. Bloatedness

Drink beverages between meals, rather than during meals. Avoid oily foods, as fat stays in the stomach longer and makes you feel full. You should also cut down on foods that cause gas, such as beans, cabbage, and cauliflower.

3. Changes in your sense of taste or smell

Serve foods cold, or at room temperature, as this will make them taste and smell less strong, and be more palatable. Have lemon drops, sour plum, or preserved orange peel to remove any undesirable taste that lingers in your mouth. If your metal utensils leave a bitter taste, switch to plastic or porcelain instead.

4. Constipation

Eat fibre-rich foods, such as vegetables, fruits, and wholegrain products. Drink at least eight to 10 cups of fluid a day - but avoid caffeinated drinks as they tend to dehydrate the body. Use laxatives only with your doctor's advice.

5. Diarrhoea

Drink plenty of mild, clear liquids throughout the day to prevent dehydration. Avoid foods which are oily or rich in fibre, and switch to lactose-free dairy products.

6. Dry mouth

Sip fluids throughout the day, or suck on ice cubes. However, avoid mouthwash containing alcohol as this tends to dry your mouth out further. Eat steamed, stewed, or soupy foods that are easier to swallow. Your doctor may also prescribe an oral lubricant to relieve the discomfort.

7. Nausea

Instead of three large meals a day, switch to several smaller meals. Do not skip meals, as having an empty stomach tends to make nausea worse. If you have nausea in the morning, eat dry toast or crackers before getting out of bed. Small amounts of salty or sour foods - such as preserved plums - may help.

8. Sore mouth or throat

Cook foods until they are tender, and cut them into small pieces. Do not cook them with spices such as chili powder, cloves, and pepper. Avoid rough-textured foods such as dry toast and crackers.

9. Weight loss

Have small, frequent meals throughout the day. Eat when it's time to eat - not when you're hungry. Try and increase the caloric and nutritional intake of each mouthful of food. For example, eat crackers with kaya, add condensed milk into oatmeal, and drink soy milk instead of plain water.