The Health Benefits of Pomegranate Antioxidants are compounds that help protect the body's cells from damage caused by harmful free radicals, which contribute to a number of chronic diseases. Getting antioxidants from fruits like pomegranate is an effective way to support overall health and prevent disease.
Good for the Brain Pomegranate contains antioxidants called ellagitannins, which help reduce inflammation in the body.
Good for Heart Health There is evidence that fruits rich in polyphenolic compounds, such as pomegranate, may benefit heart health.
Supports Digestive System Health Eating pomegranate may support gut microbiome health, which plays a key role in many aspects of health. Test-tube studies have found that pomegranate can increase levels of beneficial gut bacteria, suggesting it may have prebiotic effects. Prebiotics act as fuel for the good bacteria in your gut, supporting a healthier microbiome. Additionally, pomegranate seeds are rich in fiber, which is essential for digestive health and may protect against some digestive issues.
Improves Exercise Endurance The polyphenols in pomegranate may increase exercise endurance.
Antimicrobial Properties Compounds in pomegranate may help fight off harmful microorganisms, combating bacteria, fungi, and potentially yeast. For example, in a study in people with heart disease, drinking pomegranate juice reduced the frequency and severity of chest pain, as well as some biological markers that indicate a protective effect on heart health.
A small study found that pomegranate extract reduced fatigue time and improved performance in trained cyclists. Other research has suggested that pomegranate supplements may improve both endurance and muscle recovery. However, drinking pomegranate juice showed no benefit for muscle recovery after exercise, indicating the need for more research.
For example, it may support oral health by limiting the growth of germs that can contribute to bad breath and tooth decay.
Helps Prevent Inflammation Chronic inflammation can contribute to many conditions, including heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and cancer, and eating pomegranate may help prevent inflammation associated with these chronic conditions. This is largely attributed to compounds called punicalagins, which have been shown to have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Despite the need for more research, studies show that drinking pomegranate juice can reduce some markers of inflammation.
Pomegranate... The Fruit Richest in Health Benefits Some studies have found that ellagitannins may help protect the brain from Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease by reducing oxidative stress and increasing brain cell survival. It is believed that ellagitannins produce a compound in the gut called urolithin A, whose ability to reduce brain inflammation and delay the onset of cognitive disorders has been studied. However, more research is needed.
Compounds in pomegranate may help protect brain health and prevent Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease.
Pomegranate is low in calories and fat and is also rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals.
Promotes Urinary Tract Health Studies have found that pomegranate extract may help reduce the formation of kidney stones. In a 2014 study, it was found that pomegranate extract inhibits the mechanism associated with stone formation in people with recurrent kidney stones. Additionally, animal studies have found that pomegranate extract may help regulate levels of oxalates, calcium, and phosphates in the blood, which are common components of kidney stones.
The 7 Best Fall Fruits to Boost Immunity, Energy, and Heart Health Animal research has also found that pomegranate helps slow tumor growth in the early stages of liver cancer. Additionally, according to previous research, pomegranate extract may be beneficial for prostate cancer.
Has Anti-Cancer Properties Research has found that the compounds in pomegranate have anti-cancer properties.
1. The Healthline website discusses the many health benefits of pomegranate.
