The pomegranate brings a lot of health and vitality to those who take it.
- You may want to read: “ The 15 main causes of bad breath (and tips to avoid it) ”
What is pomegranate?
This strange fruit has its origin in the northern part of the Persian Gulf, and since ancient times it began to be consumed throughout Eurasia. “Malum granatum” was the name by which this fruit was known in the Roman Empire, which means apple with seeds, and hence the current name “pomegranate”.
But its anatomy differs a lot from that of an apple, as the internal structure is full of receptacles with juicy grains. These are made up of seeds and a very tasty fleshy part.
This fruit is full of vitamins, sugars, minerals, fiber and other phytochemical substances with very good properties . You have to crumble it to be able to consume it, and it is ideal for adding to fruit smoothies, cereal bowls, or simply eating it directly or making juice with it.
- Related article: ” Apple: 15 properties and benefits of this healthy fruit “
12 properties and benefits of pomegranate
The pomegranate is not a fruit that is considered widely consumed, as it is not always found in all fruit stores. Anyway, if you look in a market you will find, there is always a stall with pomegranates in a market.
It is recommended to eat it regularly when the occasion arises, since the pomegranate has many properties and benefits. It is a fruit with a nutritional profile that stands out from all the others, being a very healthy food.
- It might interest you: “ The 10 fruits that should not be stored in the fridge ”
1. Contains many vitamins
The pomegranate is a fruit with a very good supply of vitamins . It has different types of these substances, highlighting vitamins A, C, E, K and some from group B. Vitamin K is the most relevant, and there are not so many sources in which to find good amounts of this molecule.
2. Provides minerals
Very beneficial minerals can also be found in the pomegranate . Trace elements such as zinc, copper, potassium and phosphorus are essential to perform many vital functions of the human body (metabolism, nerve impulse transmission, bone formation and maintenance, etc.).
3. Phytochemical content
Phytochemicals are substances with positive effects on health . They are found in foods of plant origin and are biologically active, having a lot of added value as a source of health. For example, folic acid, ellagic acid and different types of phenols can be found in pomegranate.
4. Improve defenses
The pomegranate is a fruit with a high antioxidant capacity . It contains many substances such as ellagic acid that strengthen the immune system, so by taking this fruit the human body is much more prepared thanks to good defenses.
5. Antibacterial properties
Taking pomegranate is effective in fighting opportunistic bacteria . Thanks to substances that the plant itself uses to fight microorganisms, combating seasonal diseases such as the flu is much more effective for humans if they eat this type of fruit.
6. Anti-cancer power
The high concentration of antioxidant substances makes it have anticancer properties . Taking pomegranate does not cure cancer, but it does help the body to inhibit cell growth thanks to substances such as punicic acid.
- You may want to read: “ Carrot: 12 properties and benefits of this vegetable ”
7. Improves cardiovascular health
Improved cardiovascular health is one of the great benefits of pomegranate . The properties conferred by the substances contained in the pomegranate reduce the risk of heart attacks, atherosclerosis plaques and hypertension.
8. Provides vitality
The pomegranate brings vitality thanks to all the beneficial substances it contains . The combination of natural sugars, vitamins, minerals and phytochemicals is great to start the day with energy. It is a much better option than having a coffee for example, and it keeps you fit for the rest of the day.
9. Take care of the skin
Phytochemicals and substances such as vitamins A, C or E take care of the skin . A person who ingests good amounts of these substances has more regeneration capacity of their skin and also of tissues such as mucous membranes. The skin gains smoothness and healing capacity as well.
10. Fight diabetes
Pomegranate is also recommended to combat diabetes . Substances such as polyphenols are antidiabetic, since they improve insulin sensitivity, causing glucose absorption to be inhibited. It is not that it cures diabetes, but it avoids making it worse.
11. Stimulates bone mass
Bone tissue is also benefited if pomegranate is consumed . The fact that it contains such a rich mineral supply means that the bone does not suffer from demineralization, which is why it is highly recommended to avoid diseases such as osteoporosis.
12. It has diuretic properties
Eating this fruit is also good for eliminating fluids . The diuretic capacities of the pomegranate are another of its properties or benefits, and it is that it works well to fight fluid retention. Eliminates surpluses thanks to its proportions of potassium and sodium and prevents areas such as the ankles from swelling.
- It might interest you: “ Organic food: what they are, and 6 benefits of consuming them ”
Bibliographic references
- Doijode, S.D. (2001). Seed storage of horticultural crops. Nueva York: Food Products Press.
- Hamilton , CW ( 2001 ). Punicaceae. In: Stevens , WD , C Ulloa , A Pool & OM Montiel (eds.). Fl. of Nicaragua. Monogr. Syst. Bot. Missouri Bot. Gard. 85(3): 2186–2187.
- Wang, L. y Martins-Green, M. (2012). Pomegranate and its components as alternative treatment for prostate cancer. Int J Mol Sci, 15(9), 14949-14966.
To the classic question “what do you do?” I always answer “basically I am a psychologist”. In fact, my academic training has revolved around the psychology of development, education and community, a field of study influenced my volunteer activities, as well as my first work experiences in personal services.