Pomegranate is an exotic and brilliant, red fruit which contains a very distinctive ruby red seeds that look like jewels, with proven medicinal purposes and benefits. The easiest way to gain all the health benefits of this superfood is by drinking pomegranate juice.
Pomegranate juice contains a big range of vitamins and antioxidants and has many health benefits including increased heart health, protection against certain types of cancers, and it may even help with erectile dysfunction!
Pomegranate is a red fruit (also may have bright red, purple, or orange-yellow color depending on the cultivar types) that grow on trees in mild or subtropical climates. The fruit inside is separated by white, thin, spongy, membranous, bitter tissue filled with edible sweet, red or sometimes pink seeds which can be soft or hard, depending on the fruit mature. The pomegranate juice has a deep red or purple color and has a tart flavor. The taste of the pomegranate juice is sometimes compared to cranberries.
Pomegranate Juice Nutrition
Pomegranate juice is packed with a wide range of nutrients that improve your health.
Vitamins and minerals
Pomegranate is an excellent source of vitamin C which provides about 17% per 100 g of daily requirement. Also, is a good source of vitamin B5 (pantothenic acid) and many other vitamins of the B-complex group, folates pyridoxine and vitamin K. The fruit contains minerals such as calcium, copper, potassium, and manganese.
The consumption of vitamin C boosts immunity and helps the body to develop resistance against infectious agents.
Macronutrient Composition
Fresh pomegranate juice is very healthy, and contains no saturated fats and cholesterol. It is packed with carbs and protein, but it is also high in calories and sugar. The natural content of fructose is a good source of energy for the body, but also can lead to weight gain, dental problems and high blood sugar. Therefore, drink this juice in moderation.
Pomegranate Juice is a good source of soluble and insoluble fiber, that can help in smooth digestion and bowel movements.
Granatin B and Punicalagin are certain ellagitannin compounds found richly in the pomegranate juice. These powerful compounds are effective in reducing heart-disease risk factors by fighting harmful free radicals from the body.
Pomegranate juice contains a high number of antioxidants called flavenoids, which help to keep arteries healthy, reduce cholesterol and prevent heart attack and stroke.
Pomegranate Health Benefits
Drinking pomegranate juice regularly can reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease and several types of cancer (prostate cancer, benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), and lymphoma) and diabetes. It can also inhibit the growth of estrogen-responsive breast cancer cells.
Regular inclusion of pomegranate juice in your diet boosts immunity and improves circulation.
Daily glass of 50ml of pomegranate juice drinking regularly for a long period can help those with carotid artery stenosis. It can reduce the damage caused by the bad cholesterol in the artery, and also cut cholesterol build-up.
Drinking pomegranate juice has also plentiful health benefits specific to women. Pomegranate juice can indirectly help in fighting women erectile dysfunction. Pomegranate juice has a great benefit for pregnant women. It is rich with many vitamins and minerals, including folic acid, a vital component of any prenatal diet. Pomegranate juice has anti-inflammatory properties and can help keep a healthy blood flow to the developing baby. The content of potassium in pomegranate juice can also help with the leg cramps that many women experience during pregnancy.
Drinking tips
It is vital for your body to add pomegranate juice to your healthy lifestyle and it is recommendable for you to drink a glass a day for optimal benefits.
Freshly juiced pomegranate juice made at home is ideal, because it is completely unprocessed and retains the most vitamins and nutrients your body needs.
Pomegranate juice can be also used in soups, sorbets, sauces, jellies as well as to flavor cakes and baked apples.
Include more healthy juices in your diet: Choose the best juice for your health