Pomegranates have gained popularity not just for its delicious taste but also for its potential health benefits, especially for heart health. Pomegranates can positively impact our cardiovascular system. But at the same time, it is important to have a balanced diet.
The antioxidants found in pomegranates can help combat oxidative stress and support overall well-being. But don’t drink the ready store-bought processed pomegranate juice found in tetra packs, as they contain preservatives and a high amount of sugar. Make your own fresh pomegranate juice at home to retain maximum nutrients and enjoy all the health benefits too.
If one must buy juice from a supermarket, look for labels that say 100 per cent juice, without any added sugars or artificial ingredients. If possible, choose cold-pressed pomegranate juice. This method of extraction helps to retain more nutrients and antioxidants compared to heat-processed juices. Preferably select organic varieties of pomegranate juice as it is made from fruits grown without synthetic pesticides and fertilisers.
Pomegranate has been used for many years now for its medicinal benefits. This fruit is a great source of vitamin A, vitamin C and vitamin E. It has anti-viral properties and is also a rich source of fibre. Eating a pomegranate as a snack will keep you satiated for a long time. It is also rich in folic acid. This fruit is very good for your hair and skin health. It will boost your immunity.
Pomegranates have three times the antioxidants than green tea. Antioxidants are very important. There’s a lot of oxidation that happens in our body when we produce free radicals. Free radicals are produced in our body due to consumption of refined oils. Deep fried foods processed and junk food, poor quality oils create free radicals in our body. These need to be neutralised because if they are not, they will eventually lead to inflammation in our bodies – the root cause of most diseases, including heart disease, cardiac arrests, strokes, diabetes and even cancer.
Pomegranates have the effect of thinning the blood and that is why it is usually recommended for heart patients. As we grow older, our poor lifestyles can lead to the arteries hardening up which makes it difficult for the blood to flow freely. When blood can no longer flow freely, then people can suffer from plaque formation, blood pressure, etc. Pomegranates can thin your blood, so if you are on blood thinners, always consult your doctor first.
Pomegranates are amazing for joint health. So, if you have constant joint pain or arthritis, then include this fruit in your diet. This fruit is good for diabetics too. Pomegranate contains butyric acid which lowers blood pressure as well as cholesterol. That is why pomegranate is a heart-friendly food. This is a gut-friendly fruit too and a great immunity booster. Pomegranate is good for brain health too. People suffering from dementia, Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s should be given pomegranates in their diet to improve their memory.
Enjoy this amazing fruit daily – on its own, or add it to juices, smoothies and salads.
Perrin The Holistic Coach