Pomegranates are plump, delicious fruits with a unique tangy flavor and refreshing juicy seeds. Pomegranates are notorious for leaving bright red stains on the hands, shirt and teeth. But don’t let that keep you from cracking open a fresh one. Here are a few reasons why you should eat more pomegranates:

Loaded with nutrients

Pomegranates boast an impressive nutritional profile that provide you with a significant portion of the reference daily intake (RDI) of certain minerals and vitamins. One cup of pomegranate seeds contains:

• Protein – 3 g
• Vitamin C – 30 percent of the RDI
• Vitamin K – 36 percent of the RDI
• Folate – 16 percent of the RDI
• Potassium – 12 percent of the RDI

The vitamin C in pomegranates contributes to many bodily functions, such as metabolism, blood circulation, bone development and tissue repair. The human body does not produce vitamin C, which is why it is important to consume plenty of foods rich in this essential vitamin. Plus, pomegranates contain high amounts of calories. Instantly boost your energy levels by snacking on a few.

Fight oxidative stress

Pomegranates are chock-full of antioxidant compounds, such as quercetin and anthocyanins, that help prevent infections and diseases caused by free radicals.

Free radicals are unstable molecules that naturally occur as the result of the body’s metabolic processes. Normally, the body regulates the amount of free radicals through the use of antioxidants. However, an abundance of free radicals can easily overwhelm antioxidants and impair their function, causing oxidative stress. When this happens, free radicals can cause significant damage to cells, lipids, proteins and DNA. Therefore, maintaining an adequate amount of antioxidants in the body is especially important. Moreover, antioxidants fortify the body’s immune system by stimulating the production of white blood cells.

Reduce inflammation

The edible pomegranate seeds contain the plant compound cyanidin, which possesses anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Therefore, eating pomegranates can help relieve joint pain caused by osteoarthritis and gout.

Lower blood pressure

Pomegranate juice is known to reduce both systolic and diastolic blood pressure thanks to the fruit’s antioxidant properties. Therefore, people with hypertension, or high blood pressure, may benefit significantly from drinking pomegranate juice. Moreover, pomegranates can greatly reduce the amount of “bad” cholesterol in your bloodstream, thereby effectively lowering the risk of cardiovascular disease, stroke and heart attack.

Regulate blood sugar

Pomegranates are loaded with dietary fiber, which regulates bowel movement and promotes a healthy gut. Fiber also slows down the absorption of glucose and “bad” cholesterol in your intestine, leading to lower levels of blood sugar and cholesterol. Plus, since pomegranates contain fructose, the healthy type of sugar, you can eat as many pomegranates as you want without worrying about your blood sugar levels.

Prevent infections

Eating pomegranates may also help your immune system fight off bacterial and fungal infections. Pomegranates are rich in ellagic acid, a phytochemical that has antibacterial properties. High amounts of ellagic acid may help prevent infections, such as gingivitis, periodontitis and denture stomatitis. The pomegranate seeds have the highest concentration of phytochemicals, so don’t spit them out.

Eliminate toxins

Eating pomegranates is also a great way to promote your body’s natural detoxification process. The phytochemicals found in pomegranates help purge the body of toxins that cause cysts, stones, ganglions, calcifications and other infections. If you’re planning to go on a detox diet, be sure to include plenty of pomegranates.

Pomegranates are packed with essential vitamins, minerals and nutrients that do wonders for the body. Include this superfood in your diet to enjoy its amazing health benefits.

Sources:

HealthLine.com

MedicalNewsToday.com