Side Effects of Ruby Reds

Many people enjoy Ruby Red grapefruit as a healthy snack or with breakfast. The health benefits of Ruby Reds are well-known: they are high in vitamin C and the antioxidant lycopene. However, there are also side effects that may come with eating Ruby Reds that dieters and citrus lovers should be aware of.

Drug Interaction

• The most significant side effect of Ruby Red grapefruit is its ability to interact with certain prescription medications. Grapefruit juice may destroy enzymes in the small intestine, where certain medications are absorbed into the body. Because these enzymes can no longer slow or block the absorption of the medication, patients may receive a large dose of the medication into the bloodstream at one time.

  This effect can last for as long as 24 hours, according to Medicine Net. Among the drugs that may have increased potency from this effect include cholesterol-lowering drugs like Lipitor and Vytorin, pain medications like Methadone and impotence drugs such as Viagra.

Heartburn

• Because of its high acid content, Ruby Red grapefruit can also cause heartburn. This effect is especially common in people who suffer from some form of acid reflux disease. Other symptoms may include a persistent sore throat and stomach discomfort.

Oral Health

• Ruby Reds can also have a negative impact on oral health. Grapefruit's high acidity is likely to cause cause a burning sensation if there are any open sores in the mouth.

  In addition, many people add sugar, which promotes tooth decay, to grapefruit to counteract its natural tartness. Drinking unsweetened grapefruit juice or eating a whole grapefruit without adding sugar is an easy way to avoid this particular side effect.