Pomegranate

Pomegranate

 

 

Pomegranates are one of the healthiest fruits of the world. They are round, red in colour and are 2-5 inches in diameter. Pomegranates are categorised as berries. Skin of the pomegranate is inedible but it contains hundreds of edible seeds surrounded by juicy, sweet, red coverings called aril. Nutritional facts of pomegranate (aril) per cup (175 grams):

 

 

Pomegranates contain punicalagins and punicic acid, unique substances that are responsible for most of the health benefits of pomegranates. Punicalagins are very potent antioxidants. In fact, pomegranate juice contains approx three times antioxidants when compared with wine and green tea. Punicic acid is the main fatty acid found in pomegranates. It is a type of conjugated linoleic acid, having potential health benefits.

 

Health benefits of Pomegranate:

 

1. Chronic inflammation leads to numerous serious diseases including heart disease, cancer, type 2 diabetes, Alzheimer’s disease, and obesity. Pomegranates have potential anti inflammatory effects mainly due to the presence of antioxidant punicalagins.
2. According to lab studies, it was reported that pomegranate extract may slow cancer cell reproduction and even induce apoptosis, or cell death, in cancer cells. The prostate-specific antigen (PSA) is a blood marker for prostate cancer. Increased PSA in a short time indicates high risk of death from prostate cancer. According to a study, it was reported that pomegranate juice can reduce the rate of increase of PSA in blood. 
3. Laboratory studies suggest that pomegranate extract can restrict the reproduction of cancer cells, even can kill some of them. 
4. Regular intake of pomegranate juice can reduce the blood pressure levels in only 2 weeks. Pomegranate extract may be beneficial against several forms of arthritis, but human research on humans is needed. 
5. Heart disease is one of the leading causes of premature deaths all over the world. Punicic acid, present in pomegranate, may help protect against several steps in the heart disease process. It may reduce triglycerides and also reduce the oxidation of LDL cholesterol particles. In addition, it can also reduce blood pressure, a major risk factor for heart attack. 
6. The plant compounds present in pomegranate can help fight harmful microorganisms. Pomegranate juice has also been linked to reduced symptoms of erectile dysfunction, however more research on humans is needed.
7. According to some studies it was reported that pomegranate may improve memory in older adults and post-surgery.  In addition, studies in mice suggest that it may protect against Alzheimer’s disease.
8. Pomegranate is rich in dietary nitrates, which have been shown to improve exercise performance by increasing blood flow.

 

 

Downsides of Pomegranate consumption:

 

1. Interactions with certain medications: Pomegranate juice can interact with blood-thinning medications and can lower blood pressure, making it a concern for people taking blood pressure-lowering drugs.

2. Digestive discomfort: Pomegranate seeds and juice contain high levels of fiber which can lead to digestive discomfort such as bloating, gas, and stomach cramps for some people, particularly those with irritable bowel syndrome.

3. Staining: Pomegranate juice can be quite messy and may cause staining on clothes and teeth due to its strong red pigment.

4. Allergic reactions: Some people may have an allergy to pomegranate, causing symptoms such as itching, swelling, and difficulty breathing.

5. High sugar content: Pomegranate juice is naturally high in sugar and can contribute to elevated blood sugar levels in people with diabetes or those who need to monitor their sugar intake.