The pomegranate is a strange but interesting fruit. On the outside, it looks like a small red melon. However, the essence of the fruit is inside, where many small seeds are considered the edible part of the fruit. Pomegranates are tasty and have several health benefits.
Serving Size
The seeds inside the pomegranate are the edible part of the pomegranate. The number of seeds one pomegranate contains is generally the serving size, which can vary according to the size of the fruit.
Calories, Fat and Antioxidants
One small pomegranate contains approximately 110 calories. On average, most adults eat 2,000 calories per day. Therefore, one pomegranate accounts for about 11 percent of your daily caloric intake. Like other fruits, pomegranates do not contain any fat or cholesterol; this makes them a beneficial part of your diet. Pomegranates are also known to contain moderate amounts of antioxidants. Antioxidants contribute to your overall health by boosting your immune system and fighting diseases and viruses.
Carbohydrates
Carbohydrates should be a part of your diet because they provide the body with a healthy energy source. Whenever possible, you should consume carbohydrates from natural foods such as fruits or vegetables or whole grains. MayoClinic.com advises consuming 225 to 325 g of carbohydrates per day. Pomegranates contain approximately 26 g of beneficial carbohydrates.
Fight Prostate Cancer
According to the Harvard School of Public Health, pomegranates may also help to fight prostate cancer. A 2007 study published by the American Institute of Cancer Research affirms that when tested on mice, pomegranate juice helped to slow the spread of cancerous cells in the body tissues.
Prevent Cardiovascular Disease
In addition, a study published in the journal "Nitric Oxide" in 2006 showed that drinking pomegranate juice can prevent the buildup of cholesterol in the arteries, thus preventing the development of plaque and reducing the risk for developing cardiovascular disease.
References
- Harvard School of Public Health: Health Benefits of Pomegranate Juice
- Livestrong.com: Wegman's Pomegranate
- World Cancer Research Fund/American Institute for Cancer Research: Food, Nutrition, Physical Activity and the Prevention of Cancer: A Global Perspective; 2007.
- C. Napoli, et. al; Pomegranate Juice Reduces Oxidized Low-Density Lipoprotein Downregulation of Endothelial Nitric Oxide Synthase in Human Coronary Endothelial Cells; Nitric Oxide; 2006.
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