Pomegranate: nutritional, benefits and contraindications

What are the nutritional properties, beneficial and pomegranate contraindications? This fruit, whose scientific name is Punica granatum, is native to southwest Asia and belongs to the family of Punicaceae. Is presented as a bushy plant, with a leathery skin yellow, green elongated leaves, red flowers and a fruit (pomegranate) consisting of juicy beans, slightly bitter, rich in minerals, water and vitamins. The different varieties of pomegranate are divided into sugary, sweet and sour and acidic. This fruit grows well in mild climate areas, but can also be cultivated in those with cooler climate (provided it is grown in a sheltered position). In Europe it is grown in Spain and Italy .The beneficial properties of pomegranate were already known in ancient times: the cooked root in wine was used as deworming and peel was used in case of lazy intestine.

Nutritional and beneficial properties

Pomegranate is rich in antioxidants, vitamin C (one pomegranate contains almost 20% of the requirement of an adult man), vitamin K, vitamin B, vitamin A, potassium, protein, carbohydrates and fats. The pomegranate is also rich in other minerals, including iron, calcium, magnesium, phosphorus and, to a lesser extent, manganese and zinc. It brings fewer calories: about 60 calories per 100 grams of product. Thanks to the presence of polyphenols tannins, this fruit plays anticancer action, inhibiting the formation of metastases and reducing free radicals. The anthocyanins contained in pomegranate juice are able to perform a protective action against damage from UV rays. Its juice can also act as an anticoagulant, reducing the risk of atherosclerosis, and also carry out preventive action for cardiovascular disease. Its regular consumption helps lower LDL cholesterol and raise HDL cholesterol, fight obesity, improve overall health and is also indicated for patients on dialysis.

Contraindications

The excessive consumption of pomegranate (in particular of active principles derived from the bark) can cause poisoning. In these cases, the side effects are dizziness, headache, drowsiness and difficulty breathing. In addition, the juice of this fruit can inhibit the effect of certain drugs. Eating a pomegranate from time to time does not affect the success of a cure, but if the intake is everyday is good to consult your doctor to check for possible interactions with medications you take. Rarely, people experience allergic reactions to pomegranate juice. When you apply it on the skin can cause itching, swelling, difficulty breathing and nasal congestion. Large amounts of pomegranate juice, finally, can lower blood pressure.