The 29 benefits of a pomegranate

1. Although pomegranates are limited in the supermarket and usually only in season, it is well worth the search.

1. Pomegranates are one of the healthiest fruits you can eat. They contain numerous vitamins, minerals and phytonutrients. Although every fruit is of course healthy, pomegranates contain properties that make this fruit very special.

1. And even if you don't care about all the health benefits, pomegranates are incredibly tasty and a great everyday choice!

1. In this article I will go through no fewer than 29 health benefits of pomegranates. Reason enough to start shopping quickly!

1. Let's get started ...

1. Fight Cancer

1. Pomegranate contains a higher amount of antioxidants than most other foods and this plays a role in the lowering of the risk of cancer. Most studies have shown that regular consumption of pomegranate can reduce the risk of prostate, breast, colon and lung cancer. There are several ways in which the development of cancer cells can be slowed. For example, there is a substance in pomegranates that can prevent cancer from spreading.

1. Studies also show that there is a reduced blood flow to the cancer cells, causing them to starve, as it were. This is according to the 2008 study published in the International Journal of Oncology. Mice administered human prostate cancer cells were given a 4-week course of the pomegranate juice extract. The results showed a significant reduction in tumor size in the mice. However, we must remember that these studies were conducted on animals. Many more scientific studies are needed to find out if the same effects are also visible in humans.

2. Pomegranates are anti-inflammatory

1. Natural pomegranate juice was compared with other components in an analysis. This showed that this fruit is the most effective in fighting inflammation. In addition, pomegranate juice contains powerful phenolic antioxidants, like other brightly colored fruits, but it also contains complex sugars that have an anti-inflammatory effect.

3. Pomegranate keeps your teeth clean

1. The abundant amount of flavonoids coupled with the anti-bacterial properties of pomegranate has been found to be equally effective in removing plaque and bacteria that cause tooth decay and gum disease.

4. Lowers Cholesterol

1. Pomegranates contain a natural enzyme - paraoxonase - that prevents LDL cholesterol from building up in the veins. In one study, subjects who received pomegranate juice for 2 weeks had an 18% increase in this enzyme.

5. Good for your joints

1. Research shows that both the pomegranate and even the seeds have anti-inflammatory properties and thus prevent damage to the joints.

6. Pomegranates are a great source of fiber

1. If you eat just one pomegranate, you already have three quarters of the recommended amount of fiber. Fiber not only ensures healthy bowel movements, it also ensures a satiated feeling, keeps you slim, promotes your immune system and nourishes your intestinal flora. Enough reasons to eat pomegranate regularly!

7. Protects the skin

1. The powerful anti-oxidants (including ellagic acid) in pomegranates help limit the damage from UV rays. They also counteract free radicals and stimulate collagen production.

8. Fight breast cancer

1. Research shows that pomegranate juice destroys breast cancer cells, while leaving healthy cells alone. However, the fruit can also prevent the development of new breast cancer cells.

9. Lung Cancer Prevention

1. Studies in mice have shown that pomegranate juice may be able to hinder the promotion of lung cancer.

10. Prevents prostate cancer

1. A study of 50 men undergoing treatment for prostate cancer found that a glass of pomegranate juice a day fought the cancer, thus further increasing the need to treat the cancer with chemotherapy. declined sharply.

11. Prevents Alzheimer's

1. One of the most fascinating health benefits of the pomegranate is that it may counteract the progression of Alzheimer's disease. In one recent study, laboratory mice were carefully bred with the genetic predisposition to the development of Alzheimer's disease. One group of mice was given pomegranate juice, while the other group was fed a regular diet. The researchers found that the mice that drank the pomegranate juice were much less affected by amyloid plaque, a waxy material consisting mainly of protein fibers found in various organs. This plaque is a major cause of Alzheimer's disease. Also, the mice given the juice appeared to be able to perform mental tasks better.

12. For the treatment of malaria

1. In the distant past, before the emergence of modern medicine, pomegranate was the only thing used in the treatment of malaria. The reason for this is the pomegranate's strong anti-parasitic properties. If you are going on holiday to an exotic country soon, make sure you get enough pomegranates at home!

13. The pomegranate as a natural blood thinner

1. There are two types of blood clots: the former allows for rapid healing of external injuries such as a cut or an open scrape. These blood clots (the 'crusts' that form on the surface of the won) are essential to prevent you from losing too much blood. However, the other kind of blood system is internal and dangerous. Consider, for example, the clots in the heart and the veins, which can cause a heart attack or stroke, for example. You want to avoid these blood clots, because in the worst case they can be deadly.

1. The seeds of the pomegranate work as a blood thinner due to the high amount of antioxidants. The seeds stop the platelets from coagulating and also stop blood clots from developing.

14. Prevention of atherosclerosis

1. Older age and an unhealthy lifestyle both play a role in hardening the arterial walls and in combination with cholesterol this can lead to so-called blockages in the veins. The antioxidant properties of the pomegranate prevents cholesterol from 'sticking' in the veins. The fruit also prevents the hardening of the vessel walls, so that your veins remain free and clean.

15. Pomegranates act as a kind of oxygen mask

1. Pomegranates increase the amount of oxygen in your blood. The antioxidants lower cholesterol, destroy free radicals, and also help prevent blood clots. More oxygen in the blood ultimately also leads to better blood flow, which in turn benefits every cell in your body.

16. Prevents Arthritis

1. The health benefits of pomegranate go deep into the bone. The fruit can limit cartilage damage for people with arthritis. This particular fruit has the capacity to reduce swelling and also fight the enzymes that damage cartilage.

17. Helps with erectile dysfunction

1. This is probably the last thing on your mind, but it is true! Pomegranate can even help with this tricky problem. But beware, it is not a miracle cure (nor does it work like Viagra!); pomegranate juice can only moderate erectile dysfunction. Although medication is still more effective in some cases, it is nice to know that you can already see improvement with a simple natural remedy.

18. Rich in anti-oxidants

1. Everyone knows that green tea is healthy because it contains so many antioxidants. But did you know that pomegranate contains 3 times as many of these powerhouses as green tea and even red wine? Antioxidants fight free radicals - these are unstable molecules that can damage DNA and cell membranes. This particular cellular damage has been linked to a variety of diseases, including cancer.

19. Pomegranate and Cardiovascular Health

1. Pomegranates have a positive effect on cardiovascular disease according to Harvard University. For example, pomegranate juice can prevent oxidative damage to bad cholesterol. This type of cholesterol, when it oxidizes, plays a role in the onset of a heart attack. Pomegranate juice, however, cleans the veins from the inside, thus preventing plaque build-up. While more studies are needed to confirm these effects, it certainly doesn't hurt to enjoy this ruby ​​fruit a little more in the meantime.

20. Pomegranate fights free radicals

1. Because pomegranates are packed with antioxidants, they fight the free radicals produced in the body. The free radicals cause oxidation from external and internal sources as well as contact with dangerous environmental toxins, chemical contaminants and even the harsh UV rays of the sun.

21. Lowers blood pressure

1. Research has shown that pomegranates can be effective in lowering blood pressure because they contain a good portion of potassium. Potassium is an excellent mineral for people with hypertension or high blood pressure.

22. Healthy digestion

1. The pomegranate plays an important role in the release of enzymes. As a result, this fruit improves digestion. Pomegranates also contain large amounts of fiber, which in turn ensures good bowel movements. It is therefore not surprising that they are often used in Ayurvedic medicine for constipation problems, but also for diarrhea. They also act as a laxative and help increase the peristaltic actions of the intestines and thus reduce intestinal problems.

23. Helps Prevent Acne

1. Acne can be caused by a hormonal imbalance or even digestive problems. Regular consumption of pomegranates can help prevent acne and combat the root causes by correcting digestive problems and stimulating good blood flow. The fruit contains a healthy amount of iron, so that oxygen can be better absorbed by the blood. Oxygen is transported to the skin cells, leaving the skin looking fresh and also smooth. Additionally, the pomegranate is a great way to get vitamin C, an effective antioxidant known for protecting the skin from harmful free radicals.

1. Vitamin C is also essential for regulating the production of sebum, an oily release from the skin's sebaceous glands. Too much sebum in the skin can also cause acne. To combat acne with the help of pomegranate you can choose to consume the fruit regularly or you can use the juice and apply it daily on the affected areas. Then wash your face with cool water. You should see improvement within days. Garnet extract also helps with acne and prevents scarring by stimulating skin cell regeneration.

24. Prevents skin aging

1. Pomegranate juice is also a great way to combat skin aging from the sun. Pomegranate helps to extend the life of the cells that produce collagen and elastin. Elastin and collagen help keep the skin nourished and also provide the skin's flexibility. A study also shows that using pomegranate oil on the skin stimulates collagen production, thus avoiding the breakdown of collagen fibers resulting in wrinkles. Collagen fibers are responsible for keeping the skin smooth and flexible. This can slow the development of wrinkles and other signs of skin aging.

25. Helps with cuts and scrapes

1. Numerous studies show that the use of pomegranate oil can help to promote and accelerate wound healing. For example, the oil helps to quickly repair cuts, pimples and other damages on the skin, and also prevents scar tissue from remaining.

1. While pomegranate - and pomegranate juice - are a bit expensive, they are well worth it. Moreover, you save money, because you no longer have to buy other cosmetic products. Preferably always choose the fruit itself, it is often relatively cheaper than the juice and also the healthiest.

26. Protect your teeth

1. Pomegranates have been shown to be effective in the treatment and prevention of certain dental problems. Some studies show that pomegranate juice consumption is very effective in protecting against dental plaque.

27. Reduces stress

1. A study conducted by scientists at Queen Margaret University in Edinburgh showed that pomegranates can reduce stress and tension. The juice significantly reduces the stress hormone cortisol in the saliva. Participants felt much less tense and anxious after drinking a glass of pomegranate juice.

28. Let the pounds melt

1. Pomegranate juice could significantly reduce belly fat. Participants who drank half a liter of pomegranate juice daily for 4 weeks had lower levels of fatty acids in the abdominal area than participants who did not drink the juice. This means that the juice has the ability to reduce fat in the body - and of course it is even better to eat the whole fruit.

29. Anti-inflammatory properties

1. Due to the higher amount of antioxidants, pomegranates have a strong anti-inflammatory effect. A study published in the Journal of Nutrition already found that pomegranate juice can reduce swelling associated with arthritis. Pomegranates also have anti-microbial and anti-bacterial properties.

Finally ...

1. As you can see, these ruby ​​red fruits are not only packed with flavor, but also packed with health benefits. Keep in mind that we actually know very little about all the benefits of this fruit. For every benefit described here, there are another 10 traits we don't know about.

1. If you cannot get fresh fruit, it is still possible to get pomegranate juice in the supermarket at any time of the year. So you can always enjoy all the benefits! Fresh is of course preferred, but the juice also offers enough health. For an extra boost, you can also use the juice in a green smoothie. Extra nutritious!

1. Do you already consume pomegranate regularly and how do you prefer to eat this fruit? Let us know in the comments!