While many people enjoy the amazing flavor of pomegranate juice researchers are beginning to understand the amazing health benefits of this delicious fruit. Quite simply, pomegranates are one of the healthiest fruits on earth.
In ancient cultures the pomegranate is considered the “fruit of paradise”. In fact pomegranates have been used medicinally for thousands of years. Laboratory tests show this fruit to have antibacterial, antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties.
Pomegranates are an antioxidant rich food. This fruit contains three different antioxidant polyphenols, anthocyanins, ellagic acid and tannins. Antioxidants are critical nutrients to help the body resist cellular damage that is caused by exposure to environmental pollutants.
Health benefits of pomegranates
There’s a lot of talk lately about pomegranates, but do all the health claims really live up to what people are saying? The answer is a resounding yes. Here are a few of the many health benefits of this amazing fruit.
Lowers risk of heart disease.
Lessens diarrhea symptoms
Blood pressure lowering properties.
Helps fight cell damage.
Inhibits and destroys cancers such as breast, colon, pancreatic and prostate cancer.
Reduces cholesterol.
Reduces complications linked with obesity.
Protection against ulcerative colitis.
Antibacterial and anti-viral properties against gum disease.
Help the body fight bacterial and fungal infections
How to cut open a pomegranate
Pomegranate juice stains any surface. So be sure you are wearing an apron or old clothes when seeding the fruit.
Cut off the stem end of the fruit and place fruit cut side down on the counter. The crown of the fruit should be on top.
Using a paring knife, cut a circle around the crown at an angle to remove it.
Use your knife to cut along the gentle vertical ridges on the outside of the fruit.
Use your fingers to gently pry apart the fruit.
Working over a bowl of water, pry away the seeds (arils) from the membrane. The seeds will sink to the bottom, while the membrane will float on top. Remove the membrane with a sieve, or spoon. Strain the seeds from the water with a colander or strainer.
How to freeze the pomegranate seeds
Once you have seeded the pomegranate, you may want to freeze the seeds for later use. Be sure the seeds are dry. Arrange them in a single layer on a rimmed baking or cookie sheet that is lined with parchment or wax paper. Place the tray in the freezer for 2 hours or until frozen. Once frozen, place the seeds in a freezer bag or container and store them in a labelled container in the freezer.
12 simple ways to enjoy pomegranate seeds
Sprinkle on a vegetable or fruit salad.
Snack on them fresh from the fruit.
Top your favorite yogurt.
Garnish your desserts.
Make fruit salsa.
Add to your favorite cereal or hot oatmeal.
Add to couscous.
Make a refreshing fruit drink with a Tablespoon of pomegranate and topped with your favorite juice.
Fill celery with nut butter and sprinkle pomegranate seeds on top.
On top of pancakes or waffles.
As a garnish for fresh fruit smoothies or pudding.
Add to fruit popsicles.
