Pomegranate is one of the most popular, nutritionally rich fruit known for its unique flavour, taste, and heath-promoting characteristics. The name is derived from the Old French terms “pome,” for “an apple,” and “grenate,” for “many-seeds.”
The fruit carries about 83 calories per 100 grams; slightly more than that of apples. It contains no cholesterol or saturated fats, it is also a good source of many vital B-complex groups of vitamins such as pantothenic acid (vitamin B-5), folates, pyridoxine and vitamin-K, and minerals like calcium, copper, potassium, and manganese.
Nutritionists often recommend pomegranate in the diet to reduce weight and control cholesterol. Regular inclusion of this fruit in the diet boosts immunity, improves circulation and offers protection from cancers. Regular consumption of pomegranate has also been found to be effective against prostate cancer, benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), diabetes, and lymphoma.
Did you know?
The pomegranate seeds have been a Hebrew symbol of fertility since biblical times, and the fruit once formed part of the decoration on the pillars of King Solomon’s temple. The pomegranate plant is a dense, deciduous shrub that can grow up to 12 feet in height. Crimson flowers are borne on slender, somewhat thorny branches that have glossy, dark-green leaves about an inch long.
Storing Pomegranate
The fruit can be refrigerated for up to 2 months or stored in a cool, dark place for about a month.
2002. Encyclopedia of foods. San Diego, Calif.: Academic Press
Nutrition And You.com. 2022. Top 8 Pomegranate Nutrition facts and Health benefits. [online]
Available at: <https://www.nutrition-and-you.com/pomegranate.html> [Accessed June 2022].