Learn 9 health benefits of pomegranate that make it a super fruit!

Pomegranate is healthy for you because it is low in calories and high in fiber, vitamins, minerals and antioxidants. Here are 9 benefits of pomegranate for your overall health.

Pomegranate is known for its tangy and sweet taste and has many medicinal properties. This nutrient-dense fruit contains vitamins C and K, folate and potassium, as well as powerful antioxidants such as punicalagin and flavonoids. When consumed regularly, it can help prevent heart diseases by lowering blood pressure and improving cholesterol. Its anti-inflammatory properties help fight many diseases, including arthritis and some types of cancer. The interesting thing about pomegranate is that every part of it (the juicy seeds, the peel, and even the flowers) has great health benefits. Without further ado, let’s take a look at the health benefits of pomegranate and why you should make it a part of your diet.

Pomegranate health benefits

Here are 9 reasons to include pomegranate in your daily diet:

1. Rich in antioxidants

According to research published in the Iranian Journal of Pharmaceutical Research, pomegranate pulp and peel are rich in powerful antioxidants, including polyphenols and flavonoids. These antioxidants help neutralize harmful free radicals that can cause oxidative stress in the body and brain damage. “A regular diet can help prevent chronic diseases such as heart disease, cancer, and diabetes by reducing oxidative stress and inflammation.

2. Anti-inflammatory properties

Chronic disease has been linked to many diseases, including joint problems, heart disease, cancer, and diabetes. Pomegranates have powerful anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce inflammation in the body. A study published in the journal Oxidative Medicine and Cellular Longevity shows that pomegranate extract can inhibit the activity of cancer cells and reduce inflammation in the colon. Therefore, consuming this fruit regularly can improve your overall health.

3. Prevent heart disease

Pomegranates may improve heart health due to their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. They are known to lower blood pressure, lower cholesterol, and improve overall cardiovascular health. A study published in the journal Complementary Medicine found that drinking 50 ml of pomegranate juice daily for two weeks lowered blood pressure. The antioxidants in pomegranates also help prevent LDL (bad) cholesterol, which is an important step in preventing heart disease.

4. Contains anti-cancer properties

Pomegranate is known for its benefits in the prevention and treatment of cancer, as it has a high antioxidant content that helps prevent and repair DNA damage that can lead to cancer. Research published in the journal Nutrients shows the ability of pomegranate to prevent tumor growth in the early stages of cancer. In addition, another study on Prostate Cancer and Prostate Disease states that pomegranate extract can prevent the spread of cancer, especially in prostate cancer.

5. Help your brain function

Cognitive impairment or memory loss is part of aging. This is due to the oxidative process in the brain. However, eating antioxidant-rich and anti-inflammatory foods like pomegranates may be beneficial for the brain. A study published in the International Journal of Molecular Sciences shows that ellagitannins in pomegranates are antioxidants that help prevent neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s by reducing oxidative damage.

6. Improve digestion

Pomegranates are a good source of dietary fiber, which is essential for health. Fiber promotes regular bowel movements and supports a healthy gut microbiome by increasing the number of bacteria in the gut. Additionally, according to research published by Anaerobe, anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant properties can help support the gut microbiome by reducing inflammation in the gut and improving symptoms of gastrointestinal diseases such as Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis.

7. Supports bladder health

While cranberry juice is best known for its ability to soothe an upset stomach, pomegranate juice is also a great choice! A study published in the journal Nutrients showed that people with kidney stones found that pomegranate extract could help prevent them from forming. This is because the polyphenol content in pomegranates can reduce blood levels of oxalate and calcium, which are components of kidney stones.

8. Strengthens immunity

Pomegranates are rich in many important vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, a nutrient known to help support the immune system. Vitamin C promotes the production of white blood cells, which are important for protecting and fighting harmful bacteria. Additionally, the antioxidants in pomegranates may support the immune system by reducing oxidative stress and inflammation, which weakens the immune system.

9. Supports healthy skin

The combination of antioxidants and vitamin C in pomegranates plays an important role in supporting healthy skin. These substances help protect skin from sun damage, reduce signs of aging, and stimulate collagen production for firmer, younger-looking skin. According to research published in the Journal of Food, pomegranate extract is also used in skin care products for its moisturizing and anti-inflammatory properties, making it beneficial for conditions such as acne and eczema.

Are pomegranate seeds healthy?

If you want to avoid pomegranate seeds, you’re missing out on many important nutrients found in pomegranate seeds. They’re safe to eat and are good sources of antioxidants, especially punicalagin and anthocyanins, which help fight oxidative stress, reduce inflammation, and protect cells from damage. These antioxidants have been linked to a reduced risk of chronic diseases, including heart disease and certain cancers. They’re also high in fiber, which helps with bowel movements and maintains intestinal health.

What’s more? Pomegranate seeds are also low in calories. Make sure to consume the seeds to benefit from these benefits.

Is pomegranate peel healthy?

As a fruit, pomegranate and its peel are quite delicious and healthy. The peel is bitter and astringent and can be used to treat many diseases. It helps reduce inflammation and swelling, improve digestion and support a healthy heart. Pomegranate peels are healthier than seeds due to their antioxidant content.

Who should not eat pomegranates?

Pomegranates are one of the best fruits to add to your diet. However, there are some risks to eating pomegranates that you should be aware of. Here is who should avoid this superfood:

• Pomegranates can cause allergic reactions such as itching, swelling or difficulty breathing. Therefore, people with severe allergies should not use them.
• If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, eating pomegranates or drinking pomegranate juice is safe, but avoid pomegranate extract.
• If you have diabetes, talk to your doctor before drinking pomegranate juice.
• Do not drink pomegranate juice or pomegranate extract if you have diarrhoea or other digestive problems.
• Those taking blood pressure medication should not eat pomegranates.