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Pomegranates

General introduction

Pomegranates are fruits that grow in a shrub that varies from 5 to 10 m tall, with spiny branches. The tree is long-lived, with some specimens from France lasting for two centuries. Their hard, woody skin houses the juicy, glassy seeds, whose sour taste is owed to the low pH (4.4), while the intensely colored juice is caused by polyphenols.

Pomegranates are an excellent source of dietary fiber and health-promoting nutrients, including vitamins C, A, folate, and minerals (potassium).

Pomegranates are also high in unsaturated fatty acids, such as the Omega 5 punicic acid – found in approximately 70% of pomegranate seeds. Fresh pomegranate is a good source of fiber to consider.

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Nutritional values per 100g / RfD Percent

(Reference Dose)*

Energy
(kcal):

0

Fat
(g/1%):

0

Carbohydrates
(g/12%):

0

Protein
(g/6%):

0

Dietary fiber
(g/25%):

0

Iron (mg/3%):

0

Potassium (mcg/9%):

0

Copper (mg/31%):

0

Vitamin B1 (mg/10%):

0

Folat (mcg/17%):

0

Vitamin C (mg/20%):

0

Vitamin K (mcg/24%):

0

Scor ORAC**/100 g: 2341

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Top benefits:

Multiple studies, conducted on pomegranates, have reported effects such as improving blood pressure, preventing inflammation and cancer, and modulating the gut microbiota.

Pomegranate ellagitannins might cause the production of a compound in the gut (urolithin A) that is capable of reducing inflammation in the brain and delaying the start of cognitive disease.

The antioxidant properties of pomegranates can stimulate cerebral blood flow, resulting in increased memory performance.

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Did you know that...

the peel of pomegranates contains a higher amount of polyphenols compared to the seeds, and that is why it is used to obtain supplements or ingredients with high nutritional value.

Essential information quote:

Polyphenols in pomegranates have shown promising neuroprotective effects that could help prevent Alzheimer’s.

Our and and tricks

Eat the pomegranate rather than juice it; the seeds are nutritious.

Cut the pomegranate in half, and then hold the fruit over a bowl, beating it gently with a spatula until all the seeds fall out.

Keep the remains of the pomegranate, the peel, and the white skin, to prepare infusions or decoctions.

Pomegranates can be the secret ingredient in baked meat or vegetable dishes.

*NUTRITION DATA SOURCE: https://www.nutritionvalue.org

**Oxygen Radical Absorbance Capacity according to USDA = This index measures the antioxidant capacity of the fruit. High values imply a strong antioxidant capacity, which, in turn suggests a low oxidation process, essential in protecting the body against the negative effects of free radicals. The FDA recommends a daily intake of 3,000-5,000 ORAC units for optimal health.

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