The health benefits of pomegranates are innumerable apart from being healthy, they are delicious too. Pomegranates have anti-viral, and anti-tumor properties, and contain vitamins and minerals including calcium, potassium, zinc, vitamin K, niacin, and folate as well as antioxidant vitamins A, C, and E. This amazing fruit contains three times as many antioxidants as either wine or green tea.

Wondering what makes pomegranates good for health? According to research published in Nutrition Reviews, pomegranates are rich in polyphenols, have high levels of antioxidants and have been shown to help lower blood pressure, decrease certain types of heart disease including atherosclerosis, and pack a powerful anti-inflammatory punch. Through its strong antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, pomegranate has even been shown to protect premature infants against inflammation-associated brain damage in rats.

Enjoy the amazing health benefits of pomegranates by either consuming them raw or processed in several ways.  You can consume the seeds, or process the fruit into a juice, syrup, paste, nectar or concentrate.

Health Benefits of Pomegranates

Traditionally, this fruit is used for clearing up acne through inhibition of bacterial growth and lipase activity, as well as for the treatment of sore throats.  Other health benefits include aiding in the relief of stomach disorders, dental problems, anemia, and prevention of heart problems and cancer. For those with osteoarthritis, pomegranate fruit has also been shown to slow cartilage deterioration according to research published in the Journal of Nutrition.

Relieves Stomach Disorders

Pomegranate peel, bark, and leaves are used to calm stomach disorders or diarrhea caused by any kind of digestive problems. Drinking tea made from the leaves of these fruits also helps in curing digestive problems. Through its antioxidant properties, this fruit can help prevent gastric ulceration according to research published in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology. Pomegranate juice is also used for reducing problems like dysentery and cholera.

Reduce Heart Problems

According to research published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition , pomegranates are rich in antioxidants and they can prevent the oxidization of (bad) LDL cholesterol in the body. Regular intake of pomegranate juice can significantly reduce atherosclerotic lesions in mice, as well as decrease blood pressure. Because of these properties, pomegranate is likely cardioprotective and good to include as part of a healthy diet. The antioxidant and anti-inflammatory components in this fruit help keep bad cholesterol from accumulating and thus, help keep the arteries clear of any clots.

Prevent Cancer

Pomegranates contain high levels of antioxidants called flavonoids. These flavonoids are known to counteract various cancer-causing free radicals. Regular consumption of pomegranates can reduce the PSA levels in the body and aid in the fight against existing cancer cells as well, according to research conducted by says the American Cancer Society.

A study suggests anti-cancer properties of pomegranate may help prevent the spread of cancer and also induce apoptosis.  Another study suggests that pomegranate seed oil is rich in compounds that have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory potential and may inhibit the viability of breast cancer cells.

Dental Care

Pomegranates, with their antibacterial and antiviral properties, help reduce the formation of dental plaque and protect against various oral diseases.

Prevent Osteoarthritis

A study by Dr. Syed Ahmed, Division of Rheumatic Diseases, Case Western University, Cleveland, USA, reveals that the anti-inflammatory effects of pomegranate may inhibit cartilage degradation in osteoarthritis.  Pomegranate fruit extract has the ability “to slow the deterioration of human cartilage”. Also, pomegranates are capable of preventing the creation of enzymes that are responsible for the break down of connective tissues within the body. 

Treat Anemia

Healthy blood flow can be maintained in the body by consuming these fruits. Pomegranates supply iron to the blood, thus helping reduce symptoms of anemia like exhaustion, dizziness, weakness, and hearing loss.

Anti-diabetic Properties

Research published in Elsevier’s Nutrition Research journal revealed that compounds present in pomegranate have anti-diabetic properties.  Also, the juice of the fruit has unique antioxidant polyphenols such as tannins and anthocyanins, which help manage type 2 diabetes. The study also showed that the peel and seed extract helped decrease blood glucose levels significantly.

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