Does Grapefruit Lower Hematocrit?

[jth0524]

Does grapefruit lower hematocrit? If so, is the whole fruit better or the juice?

 

[CoastWatcher]

There are reports that grapefruit/grapefruit seed extract may impact hematocrit. However, donation/phlebotomy is the only certain method of making a significant impact on elevated Hct levels. Some members report varying degrees of success. I tend to think it's something like DIM and estradiol: if it made the sort of difference we all looked for, nobody would be using a prescription AI.

But there are those reports, and it certainly isn't going to hurt you. If you try it, let us know!

 

[Vince]

Basically, there's not much difference between eating a whole or half of grapefruit. Make sure it won't interfere with any meds you're on.