Pomegranate: Health Benefits
The juicy and scarlet red seeds of the pomegranate fruit have long been consumed for their taste and numerous health benefits. The fruit has now become incredibly popular for its nutritional value and is a crucial part of several healthy diets.
Health Benefits of Pomegranate
- Lowers risk of heart disease
Heart disease is one of the leading causes of premature death. A four-week study examined 51 patients with high triglyceride levels. They received 800 mg of pomegranate seed oil (punicic acid) per day for four weeks. When their triglyceride levels were measured after these four weeks, they had significantly reduced numbers.
- Anti-inflammatory effects
Many diseases such as Alzheimer’s, type 2 diabetes, obesity, and heart disease are driven by chronic inflammation. Pomegranates have powerful anti-inflammatory properties that are mediated by plant compounds called punicalagin. These antioxidants reduce inflammation in the digestive tract.
- Lowers blood pressure
High blood pressure is a key factor in strokes and heart attacks. In one study, patients received 150 ml of pomegranate juice every day for 14 days. These patients had a significant decrease in their systolic blood pressure.
- Helps combat cancer
A review of Pomegranate in prostate cancer has found pomegranate extract capable of slowing cancer cell reproduction and even inducing death in cancerous cells.
- Pomegranate keeps premature aging at bay
Premature aging occurs when free radicals begin to form in our body due to exposure to the Sun and other harmful environmental toxins. Pomegranates are rich in antioxidants, which help tackle free radicals and prevent their formation. This helps your skin appear younger and plumper by keeping fine lines and wrinkles at bay.
- Reduces arthritis
They help relieve the discomfort and pain caused due to joint problems and helps in enabling you to live more comfortably. Consumption of pomegranate extract at least two times a day blocks the enzymes that are responsible for causing immense joint pains in people suffering from arthritis.
- Pomegranate boosts exercise performance
Your muscles can feel incredibly sore after a workout session. This makes you feel exhausted for several days and can even be quite uncomfortable for many people. Regular consumption of pomegranate juice has shown to be highly effective in delaying the onset of fatigue letting you work out for longer and also reducing muscle soreness post-workout.