Pomegranate is a fruit with intensely red grains (seeds) surrounded by juicy flesh. For years considered to be Symbol of life, strength and longevity, and today fashionably called a superfood. Not without reason, because in small stones there is great power, and more specifically:
- polyphenols (including puniclagin and elagic acid) – strong antioxidants that neutralize free radicals and reduce oxidative stress,
- vitamin C – supports the immune system and blood vessels,
- potassium – necessary for the proper heart rate and pressure adjustment,
- Fiber – supports digestion and regulates cholesterol.
It all makes Pomegranate is one of the most valuable fruits, especially in the diet of the elderly and the heart.
In an article that appeared in the Urological Review by Ludwig Manfred Jacob and Karl Friedrich Klippel The favorable activities of additional pomegranate juice for heart and vessels have been confirmed, including in the scope of “reduction of the accumulation of atherosclerotic plaques in vessels and reduction of hypertension (Placebo controlled, randomized second phase examination involving patients with cervical arteries). “
It is thanks to polyphenols, which:
- reduce inflammation in blood vessels,
- inhibit the oxidation of “bad” LDL cholesterol, which contributes to the creation of deposits in the arteries,
- improve the flexibility of the walls of the vessels,
- They support the production of nitric oxide – a molecule that dilates blood vessels and improves blood flow.
Importantly, most of these favorable compounds are found in grenade seeds and their envelope, and not only in the juice itself. Therefore, eating whole seeds (and not just drinking juice) can bring a fuller effect.
- Seniors – the risk of atherosclerosis, heart attacks and strokes increases with age. A diet rich in antioxidants can slow down this process.
- People with hypertension – regular pomegranate can reduce blood pressure.
- Type 2 diabetes – grenade seeds can help stabilize glucose levels and reduce insulin resistance.
- People with high cholesterol – compounds contained in the granade can support its natural regulation.
There is no one universal norm, but based on common sense and recommendations of dietitians, The optimal daily portion is about 100-150 g of fresh pomegranate seeds, i.e. 1 medium fruit seeds.
This is a quantity that provides maximum health benefits without the risk of excess natural sugars. Importantly, the seeds are also safe for the elderly – unless they have problems with the digestive system or the difficulty of chewing (the stones are quite hard). In this situation, you can blend them or add to yogurt to facilitate digestion.
Attention! People taking medications for pressure or statins should consult a doctor – navy blue may affect the metabolism of some pharmaceuticals (like grapefruit).
Peeling pomegranate is associated with clutter and frustration. But there is a simple, proven way:
- Cut the skin into the cross – do not cut the fruit to the end, only the skin.
- District gently parts of the fruit – divide it into 4 “quarters”.
- Dip the parts in a bowl of water – it is easier to separate the membranes under water under water. The latter will flow out, the stones will fall to the bottom.
- Strain, dry and ready – you have stones ready to eat or storage.
Thanks to this method, you will keep the kitchen clean and the full nutritional value.
Grenade seeds are not only health, but also Taste – slightly sour, juicy, refreshing. They can be introduced into the diet in many ways:
- for breakfast – add to porridge, yogurt or smoothie,
- as a snack instead of chips or fingers,
- for salads – they blend well with rocket, goat cheese and olive oil,
- for meat dishes – as a contrasting addition to duck or lamb,
- For dessert – with dark chocolate or as ice cream sprinkles.
This is a universal ingredient that matches both Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisine, and at the same time makes a lot of good for health especially for seniors. But, whether pomegranate seeds cleanse the arteries? Scientific evidence indicates that regular pomegranate can significantly improve blood vessels, slow down the development of atherosclerosis and support the heart at many levels. For seniors, people with hypertension or high cholesterol, it is a product that felt health and well -being.
Sources: Terazpoczy.pl
