The antioxidant power of Pomegranates

By Simply Supplements

The pomegranate is one of the oldest fruits known to man. They are thought to have originated in Persia and according to the Bible, pomegranates grew in the Garden of Eden. The deep-red fruits contain seeds and juice that have long been used in herbal medicines and traditional folk remedies. The pomegranate fruit is often referred to as a ‘superfood’ for the many health benefits it can provide. Pomegranate supplements offer an extremely popular and convenient source of  these extraordinary fruits.

Antioxidant rich fruit

The seeds and juice of the pomegranate fruit contain high levels of antioxidant flavonoids and polyphenols, which are thought to be responsible for many of the potential health benefits they can provide. Scientists have also discovered another powerful antioxidant compound called punicalagins, which are only found in pomegranates. Analysis shows that pomegranates even provide more antioxidants than green tea and cranberries. These antioxidants are believed to act as ‘free-radical scavengers’ by fighting and destroying excess toxins in the body.

Pomegranates and heart disease

Pomegranates are thought to reduce the risk of heart disease as the antioxidant compounds within the fruit may help to reduce LDL cholesterol levels and lower blood pressure. One clinical study found that daily consumption of pomegranate juice over a one year period, lowered blood pressure by an average of 12% and reduced atherosclerotic plaque by 30%. Atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries) is a leading cause of heart disease, heart attacks and stroke.

Additional benefits of pomegranate supplements

• Weight loss – findings from preliminary studies suggest that pomegranates may act as appetite suppressants and therefore support healthy weight loss.
• Pain relief – the polyphenols within pomegranates may help to reduce swelling that causes pain and discomfort in joint tissue.
• Immune system – the antioxidants within pomegranates may help to strengthen the immune system by destroying harmful ‘free-radical’ particles that cause disease.
• Skin health – ‘free-radicals’ are a leading cause of premature ageing and disease. Antioxidants may help to reverse the harmful effects they cause.

How should I consume pomegranates?

Pomegranates can be consumed in several different forms. The fruits are available in many food stores between December and March. Pomegranate juice and pomegranate tablets can be bought all year round. Beware of high sugar levels that are sometimes added to pomegranate juice to make it more palatable.

High quality pomegranate supplements can provide all the benefits of pomegranate fruits in a concentrated and convenient form, without the high sugar content. When choosing a pomegranate supplement, it is important to select a standardised extract to ensure that each tablet is consistently of the same potency and quality.

Simply Supplements Pomegranate 10,000mg supplement contains standardised extracts, which means you receive all the goodness and nutritional value from the seeds and juice of the pomegranate fruit.