Pomegranate has emerged as a tasty fruit and beverage with the added advantage of health benefits. Its benefits primarily involve its antioxidant properties. It has also shown promise in its cardiovascular health benefits. A 2011 study by Johns Hopkins University School of Nursing found that pomegranate juice consumption can help lower blood pressure through inhibiting serum activity of the angiotensin-converting enzyme, or ACE -- not unlike how blood pressure medications work. These medications, called ACE inhibitors, lower blood pressure by relaxing blood vessels. Because of this effect, you should consult your doctor before adding pomegranate to your diet, especially if you are being treated for hypertension.
What Is Pomegranate?
Pomegranate is the fruit of an Asian deciduous shrub. Its use goes back to Biblical times. You can find pomegranate available seasonally at your grocery store from September to February. The seeds provide a delicious, sweet flavor. You can eat the seeds raw or use them in a wide range of recipes. You will also find it available as a juice. The juice of the fruit will readily stain your hands and any porous surface on which it is cut. Wear gloves when preparing the fresh fruit.
Safety
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration, or FDA, has classified pomegranate as GRAS or generally regarded as safe. This distinction means that the agency considers the food safe, and its addition in other products does not require FDA approval. The FDA bases this classification on scientific evidence and experience from common use. Barring any individual reactions, you can safely consume pomegranate as you please without any ill effects.
Dosage
Scientific research has considered the effect of pomegranate in varying dosages using juice. For example, a 2001 study by SDM College of Dental Sciences and Hospital in India looked at the effect of a pomegranate-containing mouthrinse on plaque formation. Results indicated anti-plaque activity, with researchers recommending it for long-term use. A 2001 study by the Rappaport Family Institute for Research in the Medical Sciences in Israel found that consumption of 50 mL of pomegranate juice for two weeks resulted in a 5 percent decrease in systolic blood pressure, the top number of your blood-pressure reading.
Side Effects
Pomegranate is the only plant from its genus, Punica, that you are likely to encounter. As such, the possibility exists that some individuals may experience an allergic reaction from ingesting pomegranate. Seek medical attention if you develop allergy signs or symptoms including hives. Another concern involves its calorie content. A 1-cup serving contains 134 calories, making it comparable to a glass of wine or soft drink. While pomegranate is nutritious, overconsumption may lead to weight gain without increases in energy expenditure or reductions in other areas of your diet.
References
- Mayo Clinic; Angiotensin-converting Enzyme (ACE) Inhibitors; December 2010
- "Complementary Therapies in Clinical Practice"; The Effects of Pomegranate Juice Consumption on Blood Pressure and Cardiovascular Health; C. Stowe; May 2011
- "Joy of Cooking: 75th Anniversary Edition - 2006"; I. Rombauer, et al.; 2006
- FDA: Listing of Food Additive Status Part II
- "Quintessence International"; The Antiplaque Efficacy of Pomegranate Mouthrinse; S. Bhadbhade, et al.; January 2011
- "Atherosclerosis"; Pomegranate Juice Consumption Inhibits Serum Angiotensin Converting Enzyme Activity and Reduces Systolic Blood Pressure; M. Aviram and L. Dornfeld; September 2001
