Pomegranate is rich in antioxidants, fiber, and vitamins, but eating too much, combined with sweet fruits, affects digestive health and blood sugar levels.
Eat too much
Pomegranate juice is rich in polyphenol antioxidants that have anti-inflammatory properties, fight oxidative stress, and protect cells from free radical damage. While free radicals cause disruption of normal cell activity, accelerating the aging process. Oxidative stress is associated with a number of diseases such as heart disease, immunodeficiency, emphysema, cancer, arthritis, and respiratory diseases.
Pomegranate contains a lot of fiber, which is beneficial for digestion. However, consuming too much can lead to digestive problems such as stomach upset or diarrhea. Pomegranate juice has a high carbohydrate content that can easily negatively affect blood sugar levels.
Eat unripe pomegranates
Pomegranate provides potassium, which contributes to water and electrolyte balance, maintaining normal functioning of the cardiovascular system and muscles. Potassium contributes to reducing sodium intake through urine. A diet high in sodium causes high blood pressure. This mineral reduces tension in blood vessel walls, thereby balancing blood pressure. High blood pressure contributes to heart-related complications such as increased risk of stroke, heart disease, and heart attack.
Drinks containing polyphenolic compounds are beneficial for cardiovascular health, reducing the severity of chest pain – a symptom of heart disease. You should eat ripe pomegranates to promote heart health benefits.
An unripe pomegranate will be sour, not delicious, and has little nutritional value. Ripe pomegranates will be sweet and juicy. When buying, you should observe the umbilicus of the fruit. If the umbel is completely open and cracks appear around it, then the pomegranate is fully ripe.
Combine with sweet fruit
Pomegranates are acidic, so mixing them with sweet fruits like bananas is not a good food pairing suggestion. This can interfere with digestion, causing side effects such as headaches and nausea.
Pomegranate juice also contains antioxidants called anthocyanins, which have been linked to a reduced risk of developing certain cancers thanks to their anti-inflammatory properties. The drink reduces the risk of kidney stone formation. This is because the polyphenol content in pomegranates reduces oxalate and calcium levels in blood cells, common ingredients found in kidney stones.
Pomegranate is rich in fiber and low in calories, making it a good choice for people trying to lose weight. Foods containing polyphenols contribute to enhancing metabolism and reducing fat. This fruit also contributes to strengthening immunity and preventing diseases. Every day a person can drink 200 ml of pure pomegranate juice and eat one pomegranate a day. However, people with gastritis, dental problems, people with flu, and children should avoid it because pomegranates can cause heat in the body.