Pomegranate is one of the healthiest fruits on earth. People have used it for hundreds of years to treat various diseases. Pomegranates are mentioned in Greek, Islamic, Hebrew, Buddhist and Christian writings. Ancient people used these fruits as a remedy for parasites.
Current studies have shown that pomegranates have numerous health benefits and may lower the risk of certain diseases. This delicious fruit has antiviral and antioxidant properties and is a great source of important nutrients.
According to a study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, pomegranates are packed with antioxidants that can prevent the oxidization of bad cholesterol in the body. In other words, they can slow down the progression of atherosclerosis. But that’s not all.
Here are seven health benefits of pomegranates to pay attention to.
Please not that in some cases this fruit can be bad for health. Check for contradications to pomegranates before consuming them.
Pomegranate has anti-inflammatory effects
Chronic inflammation is a real medical problem since researchers believe it is among the leading drivers of heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and Alzheimer’s disease. Experiments have shown that pomegranate can lower inflammatory activity in the body. One study in patients with diabetes found that 250 ml of pomegranate juice per day for three months reduced the inflammatory marker CRP by 32%.
Pomegranate may lower blood pressure
Drinking pomegranate juice may help balance blood pressure levels. One study in people with high blood pressure discovered that consuming 150 ml of this juice resulted in a significant reduction.
Pomegranate has antiviral effects
Pomegranate contains high levels of vitamin C and other immune-boosting nutrients. That’s why it is an excellent way to fight off infections. Pomegranates have also demonstrated antibacterial and antiviral properties in laboratory tests.
Pomegranate can improve heart health
Pomegranate juice can maintain a good flow of the blood in the body and protect the blood vessels from becoming thick. As it turns out, punicic acid, the fatty acid in pomegranate may lower cholesterol levels and improve the lipid profile. In this regard, pomegranate can prevent developing of atherosclerosis. Be careful, pomegranate and pomegranate juice may react negatively with cholesterol and blood pressure medications. Consult with your doctor before including pomegranates into your diet.
Pomegranate may help ease arthritis and joint pain
Researchers suggest that flavonols in pomegranates can help stop the inflammation that contributes to osteoarthritis and joint damage. However, further research is needed.
Pomegranate can treat anemia
Pomegranates can maintain healthy blood flow in the body and supply iron in the blood. Thus, these fruits can help lessen the symptoms of anemia, including exhaustion, dizziness, weakness.
Pomegranate may help improve memory
Some evidence demonstrates that pomegranate can improve memory in older adults. In one study in surgical patients, pomegranate extract prevented deficits in memory after surgery.
The health benefits of pomegranates are countless, so try to add these juicy fruits into your daily ration.