They are praised for their health benefits and the abundance of antioxidants and nutrients. It has been scientifically shown that punicalagin, a compound found in pomegranates, is beneficial for the heart and the blood vessels. In addition, this compound has been found to lower cholesterol and blood pressure as well as to increase the speed at which fatty heart blockages melt away.
Nutrition Value of 1 Cup Pomegranate Seeds:
- Calories: 144
- Fat: 2g or 4% of DV
- Protein: 2g
- Fiber: 6g/ 28% of DV
- Vitamin C: 18g/ 30% of DV
- Vitamin K: 28mcg/ 36% of DV
- Vitamin E: 1mg/ 6% of DV
- Folate: 66mcg/ 16% of DV
According to various studies, the consumption of pomegranate juice lowers cholesterol by blocking or slowing down its buildup in the arteries in those who are at higher risk of heart disease. What`s more, it is said to be superior to Lipitor, the most common drug for managing cholesterol.
Pomegranate boosts the function of nitric oxide, a compound involved in on-the-spot cell repairmen of the lining of the arterial walls. Being abundant in antioxidants, pomegranate reduces the oxidative status of bad cholesterol by staggering 90 percent.
More Benefits Of Eating Pomegranates
1. Anemia
Regular consumption of pomegranates helps maintain healthy blood flow throughout the body. Being rich in iron, pomegranates help reduce weakness, hearing loss, dizziness, exhaustion, and other symptoms of anemia.
2. Diabetes
Diabetics can benefit a lot from drinking pomegranate juice as it helps reduce the risk of many coronary diseases. Moreover, it reduces the hardening of the arteries, which in turn inhibits the development of various heart diseases.
3. Stomach Disorders
The peel, bark, and leaves of pomegranate are often used to treat stomach upsets, diarrhea, and other digestive disorders. A delicious tea from pomegranate leaves helps treat cholera and dysentery.
4. Cancer
Last but not least, the high antioxidant content of pomegranates helps fight off free radicals, which in turn prevents breast and prostate cancer. Their robust nutritional profile helps prevent the development of other cancer types, too.
5. High Blood Pressure
According to one study, people suffering from hypertension ( high blood pressure) experienced a notable reduction after drinking 150 ml of pomegranate juice on a daily basis for two weeks.
6. Arthritis and Joint Pain
Multiple lab studies have found that pomegranate extract has the ability to inhibit enzymes that are said to damage joints in those suffering from osteoarthritis. While further research is needed, pomegranate potentially works against several forms of arthritis.
7. Bacterial and Viral Infections
Pomegranates have powerful anti-bacterial and anti-viral properties, which may be beneficial against such infections. They have been specifically shown to fight off gingivitis, the yeast Candida albicans, and many more.
source: http://besthealthyguide.com
