Pomegranates health benefits: I always knew pomegranates were extremely healthy for us, but I was surprised when I investigated the research that has already been done on pomegranates & the extent of the benefits it has on our bodies.

People have enjoyed pomegranates since ancient times for their health benefits. Modern science has found that pomegranates can help protect your heart & may even prevent cancer.

A pomegranate is a sweet, tart fruit with thick, red skin. While the skin is not edible, it holds hundreds of juicy seeds that you can eat plain or sprinkle on salads, oatmeal, hummus & other dishes.

Pomegranates are not only delicious, but they also offer a plethora of health benefits. Here are some of the amazing health benefits and nutrients found in pomegranates.

Pomegranates health benefits:

• Pomegranates are a rich source of antioxidants, which help to protect the body against damage from harmful molecules called free radicals.
• Reduced inflammation: According to research, consuming pomegranate juice may help to reduce inflammation in the body.
• Lowered risk of heart disease: Pomegranates may help to reduce the risk of heart disease by improving blood flow, reducing oxidative stress & lowering blood pressure.
• Improved memory: Studies have suggested that drinking pomegranate juice may improve memory & cognitive function in older adults.

Pomegrantes health studies:

• Heart – There is evidence that fruits rich in polyphenolic compounds, such as pomegranate, may benefit heart health. Test-tube studies have found that pomegranate extract may reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the arteries, lower blood pressure & help fight atherosclerosis – plaque build-up in the arteries that can lead to heart attacks & strokes.
• Urinary – Test-tube & human studies have found that pomegranate extract may help reduce the formation of kidney stones, a benefit that’s largely attributed to its antioxidant activity. In one study, adults ages 18–70 experiencing recurrent kidney stones were given 1,000 mg of pomegranate extract for 90 days. This was found to help inhibit the mechanism by which stones are formed in the body.
• Brain – Pomegranates contain compounds called ellagitannins, which act as antioxidants & reduce inflammation in the body. As such, they also offer protective benefits for your brain against conditions that are influenced by inflammation & oxidative stress. Some studies have found that ellagitannins may help protect the brain from developing Alzheimer’s disease & Parkinson’s disease by reducing oxidative damage & increasing the survival of brain cells.
• Digestive – Older & newer research suggests that digestive health, determined largely by your gut bacteria, is strongly linked to overall health. As such, it’s important to support your digestive health & pomegranate can be a part of that effort. Test-tube studies have also found that pomegranate can increase levels of beneficial gut bacteria, including bifidobacterium & lactobacillus suggesting that it may have prebiotic effects. Prebiotics are compounds, generally fibres, that serve as fuel for the good bacteria, or probiotics, in your digestive tract. Prebiotics allow these bacteria to thrive & support a healthier gut microbiome. https://www.nutritionalhealthenterprises.com/brain-to-gut-connection/
• Prostate – Prostate-specific antigen (PSA) is a marker of prostate cancer in the blood. If PSA levels double in a short amount of time, it indicates a significantly higher risk of death from prostate cancer. Two older trials found that giving men pomegranate juice or extract extended the PSA doubling time significantly, reducing the risk of death from prostate cancer.

Pomegranate has been observed to have anticancer effects. It may slow tumour growth, spread & reduce inflammation, although more research is needed to learn more.

Pomegranates are rich in a variety of nutrients:

•  Full of antioxidants & anti-inflammatory compounds such as punicalagins https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/antioxidants
• Vitamin C
• Vitamin K
• Folate
• Potassium
• Magnesium
• Iron
• phosphorus
• Calcium
• Fibre

Overall, it’s clear that pomegranates are a fantastic addition to any diet. Try incorporating them into your recipes, drinks, or snacks to reap the host of health benefits they offer.

Summary:

Pomegranate arils are juicy round jewels, packed with flavour. Inside each aril is a white seed that you can eat or spit out, although the seeds provide fibre. Most people prefer not to eat the skin or the white flesh that surrounds the arils. Both are often described as bitter.

 Pomegranates have been known to be one of the healthiest fruits for a long time. Besides their unique taste and texture, these fruits pack a powerful nutritional punch that can benefit your overall health & various vital organs of your body.

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All content & media on the Natural Therapy Clinic is created & published online for informational purposes only.