Certain foods stand out in the nutrition realm for their incredible health benefits. One of those foods is the pomegranate. This fruit has been used for centuries in natural medicine due to its properties and nutritional richness.
In this article, we will go over why pomegranates deserve the “superfood” title. We will review the nutritional facts of pomegranates and how you can include them in your daily routine.
Why Is Pomegranate Considered A Superfood?
The term “superfood” is not a scientific classification but rather a term often used to describe foods that have exceptional nutritional values and are known to provide significant health benefits compared to other foods. Superfoods are rich in vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and other beneficial compounds that support overall health and wellness.
Here are the reasons why pomegranate is considered a superfood:
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High in nutrients. Pomegranates are loaded with essential nutrients. They are rich in vitamin C and a good source of vitamins E and K, and folate (vitamin B-9), which is important in red blood cell formation and for healthy cell growth and function. Additionally, this fruit packs a powerful nutrient punch without pilling on the calories.
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Antioxidant powerhouse. This fruit is abundant with antioxidants, especially punicalgins and punicalins, which are exclusive to pomegranates (1).
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Contains anti-inflammatory agents. The anti-inflammatory properties of pomegranates have been shown to help reduce the risk of chronic illnesses, such as heart disease. The phytochemical compounds in pomegranate not only have antioxidant properties but also exhibit strong anti-inflammatory effects.
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Heart health benefits. Consuming pomegranate juice regularly may help support heart health by reducing cholesterol levels and oxidative stress (2). In addition, for those battling with high pressure, pomegranates may help reduce blood pressure levels (3).
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Boosting memory and cognitive functions. Pomegranates could play a role in maintaining and improving brain health. It may even help reduce the risk of age-related cognitive decline.
Pomegranate Nutrition Facts
Pomegranates are not only delicious but highly nutritious. One pomegranate contains the following nutritional information (4).
Calories: 234
Carbs: 52.7 grams
Fiber: 11.3 grams
Proteins: 4.7 grams
Fats: 3.3 grams
Vitamin C: 48% of the daily recommended intake
Vitamin K: 58% of the daily recommended intake
Folate: 27% of the daily recommended intake
Potassium: 16% of the daily recommended intake
In addition to the abovementioned nutrients, pomegranates contain small amounts of vitamin E, calcium, iron, and magnesium. What makes pomegranates stand out is their incredibly high antioxidant content.
Tips for Including Pomegranate in your diet
Now that we have outlined why pomegranate is considered a superfood, here are some tips for including this superfood in your diet.
- Mix pomegranate juice into a smoothie or homemade salad dressing for a tangy flavor explosion.
- Enjoy a refreshing beverage by mixing pomegranate juice with sparkling water.
- Sprinkle pomegranate seeds over yogurt, oatmeal, or cereal for a refreshing and nutritious topping.
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Use a pomegranate supplement to get all the health benefits of pomegranates without the additional calories.
