Pomegranate is considered one of the healthiest fruits. Pomegranate contains a series of beneficial plant compounds that are unmatched by many other foods. Studies have shown that they can have many benefits for the body and reduce the risk of various diseases. Here are 12 evidence-based health benefits of pomegranates.
Pomegranate contains many important nutrients
The pomegranate, Punica granatum, is a shrub with red fruit. Classified as a berry, pomegranates are about 5 to 12cm in diameter. The fruit is red, round, and looks like a red apple with the end of the fruit shaped like a flower.
The skin of the pomegranate is thick and inedible, but inside there are hundreds of edible seeds. Each seed is surrounded by a red, sweet and juicy layer called the seed coat.
The seeds are the edible parts of the pomegranate, which you can eat raw or make into pomegranate juice – but the skin will usually be discarded.
Pomegranate has a high nutritional value – one cup of seed pods (174 grams) contains:
- Fiber: 7 grams
- Protein: 3 grams
- Vitamin C: 30% RDI
- Vitamin K: 36% RDI
- Folate: 16% RDI
- Potassium: 12% RDI
The seed pods of pomegranates are very sweet, with one cup of pomegranate seeds containing 24 grams of sugar and 144 calories. However, the high value that pomegranates bring is not only due to the seed coat but also to the plant compounds, some of which have strong medicinal properties.
Moreover, Pomegranate is considered one of the healthiest fruits by its potential benefits. There are 10 advantages in drinking Promegranate Juice that M-Pacific disscussed in paragraph below:
1. Against breast cancer
Breast cancer is one of the most common types of cancer in women. Pomegranate extract can inhibit the reproduction of breast cancer cells, and can even kill some cancer cells.
However, current evidence is based only on studies performed in the laboratory. More research is needed before any conclusions can be drawn.
2. Against bacterial and fungal infections
Plant compounds in pomegranates may help fight harmful microorganisms. Studies have shown these antioxidants to fight certain types of bacteria as well as the yeast Candida albicans.
The anti-bacterial and anti-fungal effects of pomegranates also help protect against infections and inflammation in the oral cavity such as gingivitis, periodontitis and denture stomatitis.
3. Against prostate cancer
Prostate cancer is a common type of cancer in men. Studies performed in the laboratory show that compounds extracted from pomegranates can slow the division of cancer cells and even induce apoptosis, or death of cells. cancer cells.
Prostate-specific antigen (PSA) is a blood marker for prostate cancer. Men whose PSA levels double within a short period of time are at increased risk of dying from prostate cancer.
One human study found that drinking 8 ounces of pomegranate juice daily extended PSA doubling time from 15 months to 54 months. A follow-up study showed similar effects using a pomegranate extract called POMx.
4. Benefit in Lower blood pressure
High blood pressure (hypertension) is one of the causes of heart attack and stroke. In one study, people with hypertension had a significant reduction in blood pressure after consuming 150ml of pomegranate juice daily for two weeks. Other studies have found similar effects, especially for systolic blood pressure, which is the large number in blood pressure readings.
5. Against Arthritis and Joint pain
Arthritis is a common problem in both developed and developing countries. There are many different types of arthritis, but most involve some form of inflammation in the joints. The plant compounds in pomegranates have anti-inflammatory effects, which makes sense that they could help treat arthritis.
Laboratory studies show that pomegranate extract can block enzymes known to cause joint damage in people with osteoarthritis.
Recent research has also shown this extract to reduce arthritis in mice, although human trials are still limited.
6. Reduce the risk of Heart Disease
Heart disease is currently the most common cause of death in the world. This is a complex disease, caused by many different factors. Punicic acid, the main fatty acid in pomegranates, may help protect against several steps in the development of cardiovascular disease.
A 4-week study in 51 people with high triglyceride levels found that 800mg of pomegranate seed oil per day significantly reduced triglycerides and improved the triglyceride-HDL ratio.
Another study looked at the effects of pomegranate juice in people with type 2 diabetes and high cholesterol. The study noted a significant reduction in LDL cholesterol levels, as well as other improvements.
Both animal and human studies have shown that pomegranate juice protects LDL cholesterol particles from oxidation.
Ultimately, a research analysis concluded that pomegranate juice reduces blood pressure, which is a major risk factor for cardiovascular disease.
7. Strong anti-inflammatory effects
Chronic inflammation is a risk factor for many serious diseases, including cardiovascular disease, cancer, type 2 diabetes, Alzheimer’s disease and obesity.
Pomegranate has potent anti-inflammatory properties, largely mediated by the antioxidant properties of punicalagins. Test-tube studies have shown that they can reduce inflammation in the digestive tract, as well as in breast cancer and colon cancer cells. A 12-week study in people with diabetes found that 250 ml (250 ml) of pomegranate juice per day reduced CRP (an inflammation marker) and interleukin-6 by 32% and 30%, respectively.
If you’re interested in reducing inflammation in your body, pomegranates are a great addition to your diet.
8. Improve exercise performance
Studies actively explore the benefits of pomegranates for physical activity. Their richness in nitrates has been shown to improve exercise performance. In a study involving 19 treadmill runners, consuming one gram of pomegranate extract 30 minutes before exercise significantly enhanced blood flow, reduced fatigue, and extended exercise time. Early research suggests pomegranates may hold promise for boosting exercise efficiency.
9. Treat erectile dysfunction
Oxidative damage can reduce blood flow in all organs of the body, including penile tissue. Studies show that pomegranate juice increases blood flow and erectile response in rabbits.
In one study in 53 men with erectile dysfunction, pomegranates appeared to have some benefit but it was not statistically significant.
10 . Improve memory
There is some evidence that pomegranates can improve memory. One study in surgical patients found 2 grams of pomegranate extract helped prevent deficits in memory after surgery.
Another study in 28 older adults with memory symptoms found that 237 ml of pomegranate juice per day significantly improved markers of verbal memory and visual memory. Studies in mice also show that pomegranates may help fight Alzheimer’s disease.
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Conclusion
Pomegranate juice, bursting with vibrant color and a treasure trove of potential health benefits, transcends its status as a simple beverage. From supporting heart health to potentially boosting cognitive function and aiding digestion, this ruby elixir offers a delicious way to incorporate essential nutrient benefits into your diet.
Remember, moderation is key when consuming any juice due to the natural sugar content. However, incorporating pomegranate juice into a balanced diet alongside other healthy choices can unlock its full potential. So, the next time you seek a refreshing and potentially health-boosting beverage, consider raising a M-Pacific product to the power of the pomegranate.
