Health benefits of pomegranates: It helps lower LDL (bad) cholesterol levels and increase HDL (good) cholesterol levels.
Lower blood pressure: Regular consumption of pomegranate juice has been shown to lower blood pressure levels.
Improves blood flow: Pomegranate juice enhances blood flow by stimulating the production of nitric oxide, which helps keep arteries flexible and dilated.
Reduces cholesterol: Pomegranates help lower LDL (bad) cholesterol levels and increase HDL (good) cholesterol levels.
Flexible arteries are essential for maintaining healthy blood pressure and reducing cardiovascular strain.
Health benefits of pomegranates: It helps lower LDL (bad) cholesterol levels and increase HDL (good) cholesterol levels. (Image: Canva)
Pomegranate continues to captivate with its vibrant appearance and rich nutritional profile. Cultivated in regions around the world, this unique fruit is known for its juicy arils, each encapsulating a blend of sweet and tart flavours. The seeds inside the fruit burst with antioxidants, such as flavonoids and polyphenols, known for their health-promoting properties.
Beyond their nutritional benefits, pomegranates have found their way into folklore, art, and traditional medicine due to their symbolic significance and purported medicinal properties. Whether enjoyed fresh, juiced, or incorporated into dishes, pomegranates offer a delightful and nutritious addition to any diet.
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Here are eight advantages of pomegranate specifically related to heart health suggested by Delhi-based nutritionist Harshika Singh who is also the founder of NourishGlow.
Antioxidant properties: Pomegranates are packed with flavonoids and polyphenols, powerful antioxidants that combat oxidative stress and inflammation throughout the body, including the cardiovascular system. These compounds help neutralise free radicals, protecting cells from damage and supporting overall heart health.
Lower blood pressure: Regular consumption of pomegranate juice has been shown to lower blood pressure levels. This effect is attributed to the presence of bioactive compounds in pomegranates that promote vasodilation, improving blood flow and potentially reducing hypertension risk.
Improves blood flow: Pomegranate juice enhances blood flow by stimulating the production of nitric oxide, which helps keep arteries flexible and dilated. Improved blood flow is crucial for reducing the risk of cardiovascular diseases such as heart attacks and strokes.
Reduces cholesterol: Pomegranates help lower LDL (bad) cholesterol levels and increase HDL (good) cholesterol levels. This cholesterol-modulating effect contributes to a healthier cardiovascular system and reduces the risk of atherosclerosis and coronary artery disease.
Anti-inflammatory effects: Chronic inflammation contributes significantly to heart disease. Pomegranates possess potent anti-inflammatory properties that mitigate inflammation in the cardiovascular system, protecting against heart damage and promoting overall heart health.
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Atherosclerosis prevention: The antioxidants in pomegranates play a key role in preventing the buildup of plaque in arteries, a condition known as atherosclerosis. By reducing oxidative stress and inflammation, pomegranates help maintain arterial health and reduce the risk of heart attacks and strokes.
Protects against arterial stiffness: Regular consumption of pomegranates has been associated with improvements in arterial function and reduced arterial stiffness. Flexible arteries are essential for maintaining healthy blood pressure and reducing cardiovascular strain.
Antioxidant protection for heart tissues: Pomegranates protect heart tissues from oxidative damage due to their high antioxidant content. This protective effect helps maintain heart function and reduces the risk of complications associated with heart disease.