The Health Benefits of Pomegranate

Ever eat pomegranates? Rich in vitamin C, fiber, and antioxidants, this fruit should be a staple in your diet. It’s a natural anti-cancer, anti-diabetes, and immunity-boosting agent, offering a myriad of health benefits. Both its juice and seeds are loaded with nutrients that support metabolic function, memory, fertility, and physical performance.

Pomegranates at a Glance

Delicious and juicy, pomegranate is a powerhouse of nutrition. Health experts have called it a superfood for a good reason. This fruit protects against cancer, fights inflammation, and lowers blood sugar levels. On top of that, it’s low in carbs, so it fits into any diet.

A medium pomegranate boasts 234 calories, 41 grams of carbs, and 11.3 grams of fiber. It also delivers 4.7 grams of protein, 48 percent of the RDA of vitamin C, and 58 percent of the RDA of vitamin K. Folate, vitamin B6, thiamin, copper, manganese, potassium, and phosphorus are just a few of the many nutrients found in this naturally sweet fruit.

Pomegranates also contain antioxidants and phytonutrients with medicinal properties. Punicic acid, for instance, supports metabolic function and assists with fat loss. Punicalagins have three times the antioxidant activity of green tea and red wine. These natural compounds slow down aging, scavenge free radicals, and inhibit tumor growth.

Why Eat Pomegranates?

This fruit supports health and well-being. Rich in anti-inflammatory compounds, it may help relieve joint pain, decrease heart disease risk, and prevent cancer.

In a clinical trial, diabetic subjects who consumed 250 milliliters of pomegranate juice daily for three months experienced a 30 percent reduction in interleukin-6 and a 32 percent decrease in CRP. These inflammatory markers contribute to heart disease, chronic pain, and early death.

Other studies have found that pomegranate may induce cancer cell death and prevent cancer cells from spreading throughout the body. Furthermore, it decreases high blood pressure and boosts cardiovascular health.

Due to its anti-inflammatory properties, this fruit can help relieve arthritis and joint pain. The flavonoids and anthocyanins in pomegranate fight infections and scavenge oxidative stress. This superfood also contains fiber and antioxidants that balance gut flora by increasing the number of good bacteria in the GI tract.

In lab tests, pomegranate has been shown to improve memory, slow the progression of Alzheimer’s disease, and boost exercise performance. It benefits both your mind and body, and can add years to your life.

Start by drinking one glass of pomegranate juice per day, or eat the whole fruit. This small step can go a long way toward better health.