What is Pomegranate?
Pomegranates are round, reddish-brown fruits with a hard, smooth exterior. They grow on shrub-like trees and are typically similar in size to a navel orange. The interior of a pomegranate consists of a white, pulpy mesocarp surrounding small seeds. The seeds, also known as arils, are about the size of corn kernels and contain bright red juice. They are the only edible part of the fruit, with each pomegranate containing hundreds of seeds. The arils can be a little tricky to extract whole if the fruit is not being used simply for juice.Pomegranates are in season during the winter months and make an attractive addition to a holiday table. They tend to be expensive when compared by weight to other fruit like apples and bananas. The fruit and the juice are used for a long list of Iranian, Indian, Turkish, Greek, and Mexican dishes. The juice also makes an effective natural dye.
How Does Pomegranate Work?
Pomegranate has various chemicals that have potent antioxidant effects. Among these, punicalagins and punicic acid are the most potent. These are associated with the fruit’s medicinal capabilities.
Moreover, pomegranate is loaded with other nutrients. It contains potassium, folate, fibre, protein
2.Why Pomegranates Are Such a Healthy Fruit
Have you ever come across a richer and more nutrient-packed fruit than a pomegranate?
The red rich fruit is known to be one of the healthiest for a reason. It is called as a divine fruit because it is the most mentioned fruit in theological books. Pomegranate has anti-oxidant, anti-viral and anti-tumor properties and is said to be a good source of vitamins, especially vitamin A, vitamin C, and vitamin E, as well as folic acid. It contains two compounds – punicalagin and punicic acid which give it all the potent benefits. In fact, you will be surprised to learn that the antioxidants present in pomegranates are almost three times higher than wine or green tea. Eating pomegranates on a daily basis, or drinking the juice can be an excellent aid for your immunity, fight Type-2 diabetes, keep blood pressure in check, smoothen digestion and make your skin glow too.
So, the next time you want to pick up a snack, munch on a pomegranate.
3.10 Benefits of Pomegranate
Increase bone and cartilage strength
The polyphenol antioxidants found in pomegranates aid in bone formation and regeneration, leading to stronger bones and reduced risk of bone degeneration. They also help prevent cartilage damage and degeneration.
Combat anemia
Iron deficiency is the most common nutritional deficiency in the United States. Those whose diets are lacking in sufficient iron become anemic, and often find that they have trouble remaining alert and focused. Pomegranates are incredibly high in iron, making them an obvious addition to any diet.
Assist in weight loss
A high-fiber diet is perhaps the most important factor in feeling satisfied longer and combating cravings. Pomegranate seeds, despite being very small, are absolutely loaded with fiber. This means that those who eat them regularly are less likely to over-eat in other areas, which makes them perfect for those who are trying to lose weight.
Defend against diabetes
Advanced glycation endproducts (AGEs) are a product of foods that are prepared at high temperatures, and have been shown to play a part in the development of diabetes. Pomegranate juice combats glycation, inhibiting it by as much as 98%.
Improve heart health
When plaque forms in arteries, it can result in serious cardiovascular complications. Studies have shown that pomegranate seeds can actually slow, or even reverse arterial plaque-growth. They can also act as blood thinners, lowering systolic blood pressure in the process, and can prevent arteries from becoming stiff.
Boost your immune system
Everyone knows that vitamin C is essential for maintaining a strong immune system, but not everyone understands just how much vitamin C is found in pomegranate seeds. A single serving of raw pomegranate seeds (282 g) supplies 48% of the daily recommended value of vitamin C, which makes them the perfect snack for cold and flu season.
Rich in antioxidants
Free radicals are atoms with unpaired electrons. These atoms interact with other atoms, causing damage to the body’s cells, as well as its basic DNA structure. Antioxidants are molecules that can safely diffuse free radicals before they can do any harm. Pomegranate seeds are rich in antioxidants, which means that those who eat them are actually protecting themselves from free-radical damage.
Enhance appetite
A correlation has be suggested between consuming pomegranate juice and having an increased appetite. And while this may not seem like a good thing for those of us who want to drop a few pounds, for dangerously underweight individuals or children, it can make a big difference. A glass of pomegranate juice with a meal can lead to more food intake, and more energy in the long-run.
Help fight cancer
Those antioxidants in the pomegranate seeds may also deter cell proliferation. preventing cancer from being able to gain any sort of foothold.
Keep you young
With all of these health benefits inherent in pomegranates, what’s the end result? How about prolonged years and increased quality of life! After all, if you can wipe out free radicals, keep a healthy weight, maintain strong bones, and avoid illness, then you’ll be able to feel young and strong well into your golden years.