Pomegranate juice is an excellent source of potassium. Potassium is an essential mineral, important for muscle contraction, the nervous system and healthy blood pressure. One cup of pomegranate juice contains 533 mg of potassium, or 15 percent of the dietary reference intake for this nutrient.
Processing
Potassium is a water-soluble electrolyte, which means that it is found in abundance in water-bearing fruits and vegetables such as apples, oranges, tropical fruits and pomegranates. Pomegranate juice is made from pomegranate seeds, which are mechanically compressed to squeeze out the tangy, sweet juice. The leftover seed pulp and membranes are separated from the juice, which is then filtered and bottled. Pomegranate juice is sold as 100 percent juice or in juice blends.
Potassium Significance
The dietary reference intake, or DRI, for potassium is set at 4.7 g per day for adults. Potassium is very important for cell functioning, especially muscle contraction. According to the Food and Nutrition Board, potassium deficiency may be characterized by increased salt sensitivity, high blood pressure, increased risk of kidney stones and increased bone turnover.
Pomegranate Juice Nutrition
Pomegranate juice is an excellent source of folate as well as potassium. Folate is an essential mineral that is important for healthy pregnancy and red blood cell reproduction. One cup of pomegranate juice contains 134 calories, including 15 g of fructose, a natural fruit sugar. The fact that pomegranate juice is high in sugar means you should also consider lower-calorie sources of potassium, such as dark-green leafy vegetables, in your regular diet.
Availability
Specific manufacturers have heavily marketed the health benefits of pomegranates and pomegranate juice, which has widened its appeal and availability. Pomegranate juice is now available in most major supermarkets. Raw, unprocessed pomegranates are a cold-weather crop, and they are available in the U.S. in fall and winter. When purchasing pomegranates for juicing, they should be a dark, brilliant red and slightly soft.
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