Potassium

Grapefruit and 100% grapefruit juice can contribute to potassium intake. One-half serving of fruit and a 250 ml glass have 4% and 7% of the Daily Value respectively.

• Potassium is important for muscle and heart function, nerve transmission, maintaining fluids, and electrolyte balance.^1,2
• Potassium helps your body build muscle, maintain growth, and break down and use carbohydrates.^1,2
• Canadians consume too much sodium and not enough potassium in their diets, and potassium is considered a nutrient of public health concern.^3,4
• Potassium may play an important role in cardiovascular health. Diets containing foods that are a good source of potassium and that are low in sodium may reduce the risk of high blood pressure and stroke.³
• Higher intake of dietary potassium may be linked to improvements in bone mineral density and a lowered risk of osteoporosis.² Potassium is often found with citrate (as well as other minerals) in fruits and vegetables, including grapefruit, which may be one of the reasons for the link between potassium and bone health.^5,6 Citrate is converted in the body to bicarbonate, and consequently may support acid-base balance to lessen potential losses of calcium from bones.^5,6