Pomegranates have been consumed by people throughout history because of their distinctive flavor and rumored health advantages. We have highlighted a few of the health benefits of pomegranates and pomegranate juice in the science of health blog that follows.
Pomegranates are an excellent source of:
- Vitamin C
- Vitamin K
- Iron
- Calcium
- Potassium
- Folate
Pomegranate juice may be useful because of its potential for having the following qualities:
- It might have anti-inflammatory properties (might alleviate inflammation).
- It might have anti-oxidant qualities (may neutralize free radicals).
- It might have hypotensive properties (might help in the reduction of elevated blood pressure).
- It could serve as a prebiotic (promotes digestion promoting good bacteria).
- It might possess antibacterial qualities (may effectively eliminate microorganisms).
- It might have anti-cariogenic qualities (may reduce the risk of cavities in teeth).
- It might possess anti-carcinogenic qualities (may reduce the risk of cancer development).
- It might have neuroprotective properties (may protect brain cells from damage)
Health Benefits of Pomegranate Juice
Reduction in the Risk of Cardiovascular Diseases
Punicalagins or ellagitannins, two types of polyphenols, are abundant in pomegranates. These antioxidants support your cardiovascular system by preventing arterial wall thickening and lowering cholesterol and plaque formation. Pomegranate juice has been found to include large concentrations of anthocyanins and anthoxanthins, two compounds that promote heart health.
Aids in Joint Health
Antioxidants found in pomegranates also have anti-inflammatory properties. Due to their ability to moderate the production of inflammatory cytokines, these antioxidants may help prevent osteoarthritis. According to a preliminary study, the juice may also be beneficial for people who have inflammatory diseases including inflammatory bowel disease, rheumatoid arthritis, or other inflammatory conditions.
A good source of vitamin C
Per half-cup serving, pomegranate arils are a good source of vitamin C, according to Moon. Around 9 milligrams (mg) of vitamin C are present in that half cup, which is about 10% of the recommended daily allowance (DV) for adults.
Humans cannot make vitamin C on their own, unlike the majority of animals, hence it is essential for our diets. Since vitamin C is an antioxidant in and of itself, it keeps other antioxidants in the body functioning properly. The vitamin is a crucial component of various vital bodily functions, including collagen formation, neurotransmitter synthesis, and protein metabolism. It improves immune system performance and promotes the absorption of non-heme iron, which is present in plant-based sources of iron.
They facilitate better workout
Exercise-related benefits are another advantage of the antioxidants in pomegranates. By preventing it from degrading in the body, they may assist boost nitric oxide bioavailability. Nitric oxide enhances blood flow during movement by expanding blood vessels, a process known as vasodilation.
They are an excellent fiber source
Each serving of pomegranate arils has four grammes of fiber, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture. About a half cup of apricot arils contains around 15% of the recommended Daily Value (DV) of fiber for adults. In particular, insoluble fiber makes up the majority of the fiber in pomegranates.
Because it keeps things moving through our digestive tracts, insoluble fiber supports the health of our digestive systems (and our overall well-being). It can help us maintain stable blood sugar levels and help us feel full and pleased after meals.
They could reduce inflammation
Another advantage of the antioxidants present in pomegranates and pomegranate juice is the potential reduction of inflammation in the body, claims Kelsey Lorencz, RDN, nutrition adviser for Fin against Fin. According to studies, consuming pomegranate juice on a daily basis can lower inflammatory indicators including Interlukin-6 and C-reactive protein.
It is best to include a variety of nutritious foods like pomegranates and other fruits in your diet as chronic inflammation is a precursor to many diseases, including heart disease and diabetes. Aside from food, keep in mind that stress, alcohol consumption, exercise, and autoimmune disorders are also contributing factors to inflammation.
Good source of potassium
According to Moon, potassium, an essential electrolyte for proper muscle function, is present in pomegranate juice in good amounts. Potassium is also required for normal nerve and heart rate control. While the arils provide 205 milligrams of potassium per half cup serving, the juice has roughly 533 milligrams per cup.
They provide complex carbohydrates
Despite recent scare tactics regarding carbohydrates in diet culture, humans require this macronutrient category at every meal and snack. In fact, we require that about half (or more, depending on your individual demands) of our intake come from carbohydrates. We can meet our carb needs by including pomegranate arils and juice during meals and snacks.
Pomegranate Juice’s possible side effects
Pomegranate juice can have a number of important health advantages, but it can also interact with some medications and should be avoided by anyone who has pomegranate allergies.
Allergic Reactions
Pomegranates and pomegranate juice can cause allergies in certain people, which can cause symptoms like throat constriction and hives. Consult your doctor if you are worried about possible allergic reactions.
Medication Interactions
Certain drugs, particularly those used to treat high blood pressure or blood thinning, may interact with pomegranate juice. These prescription drugs might include ACE inhibitors such as Coumadin, Vasotec, Altace, Zestril, and others.
To sum it up!
Everything we consume has its own set of advantages and disadvantages, which we should know before we add them to our diet. It’s essential to know what will work best for you. In the case of Pomegranates, they do offer some amazing set of advantages that could be used to lead a healthier life as mentioned above. For more information related to the science of health, kindly reach out to us!
