Pomegranate stands out for its royal shape and deep reddish color. Traditionally, pomegranate was used as a symbol of good fortune and abundance. Despite its beauty, it has many health benefits, so it is considered the king of fruits!
Pomegranate, what is it?
Pomegranate tree belongs to the Punicaceae family and is a deciduous bush. The first reports of pomegranate were in Asia, but its cultivation extended to the Mediterranean sea. The fruit of pomegranate (Punica granatum) is a spherical fruit with a hard shell and many seeds. Pomegranates can be kept in the refrigerator for 2 to 4 months.
Pomegranate – nutritional value
Pomegranate is a rich source of antioxidants, to which many of its properties are attributed. It contains ellagitannin, such as ellagic acid, polyphenols, flavonols and anthocyanins, while also it is a very good source of vitamin C and potassium.
It contains over 100 different phytochemicals, which in addition to antioxidant protection, offer anti-inflammatory and anti-tumor properties. It has only 68 calories per 100gr. of fruit and is a delicious and nutritious ally for the immune system and for slimming.
Antioxidant and anti-aging protection
It is one of the most powerful antioxidant fruits. Thanks to its nutritional value and mainly its concentration in ellagic acid and vitamin C, it inhibits the action of free radicals, reduces oxidative stress and prevents cell damage and aging. In addition, it has the property of forming chelating complexes, which further contributes to its antioxidant action.
Chronic inflammation is the main cause of many chronic diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, inflammatory bowel disease and even cancer. Pomegranate has the ability to inhibit inflammation through various mechanisms, such as the inhibition of cyclo-oxygenase and lipo-oxygenase (COX and LOX), enzymes involved in the formation of prostaglandins and leukotrienes. In addition, anti-inflammatory activity appears to be exerted by inhibiting the action of many inflammatory cytokines.
Pomegranate and osteoarthritis
Studies have shown that the regular consumption of pomegranate extract can inhibit the progression of osteoarthritis due to its anti-inflammatory action. In particular, pomegranate consumption prevents collagen degradation and joint destruction.
Pomegranate and arterial pressure
Pomegranate is a rich source of potassium, a trace element essential for maintaining blood pressure. Studies suggest that pomegranate helps reduce both diastolic and systolic pressure by 36% and 5%, respectively, through inhibition of an enzyme (ACE). Pomegranate consumption helps both in the prevention and treatment of arterial hypertension.
Pomegranate and heart
Pomegranate, thanks to its rich composition in polyphenols, has been shown to exert strong cardiovascular protection, protecting LDL cholesterol from oxidation and atherosclerotic plaque formation. Polyphenols are trace elements that are found in red wine. Studies have shown that pomegranate consumption helps prevent atherosclerotic plaque formation, but also reduces oxidative stress, in case there is already atherosclerosis.
Pomegranate and cholesterol
In addition to protecting LDL cholesterol from oxidation, pomegranate also helps in lowering cholesterol levels. It contributes to the reduction of total and LDL cholesterol, acting beneficially to hyperlipidemia.
Many studies have revealed that pomegranate is a powerful natural anti-cancer fruit. In particular, it appears to inhibit the carcinogenesis of many types of cancer, such as breast, bowel, lung and prostate. Pomegranate inhibits cancer cell proliferation and promotes the apoptosis of cancer cells. Its effect is due to ellagitannins, which inhibit the expression of certain genes involved in carcinogenesis.
In addition to the above benefits, pomegranate also affects diabetes, erectile dysfunction, stomatitis and even Alzheimer’s disease. Pomegranate extract has been shown to reduce glucose levels, improve erectile function, counteract periodontitis and fungal infections, as also exert neuroprotective activity, improving memory in the elderly.
As a natural juice and fruit, it does not have a recommended daily intake. Regarding dietary supplements, doses of 250 to 500 mg per day are recommended.
In Vita4you you can find a wide variety of pomegranate juices and dietary supplements.