FBurp brings good luck in many cultures and since ancient times, the pomegranate it is one of the symbols of the end of year celebrations. And the more there is on the table, the better. Also because, traditions and beliefs aside, this fruit is very rich in properties. In short, it truly “brings good” in every sense.
Pomegranate, a symbol of luck for centuries
«Regardless of the geographical context, the symbolism linked to the pomegranate has always been an integral part of the culture of many peoples, from the Mediterranean basin to Asian countries. From the bright red leathery rind to the abundance of seeds contained within it, the pomegranate is an emblem of protection, luck and fertility. Since the times of ancient Greece and the Ottoman Empire, the breaking of a pomegranate was considered a harbinger of a favorable fate; the more numerous its grains, the more favorable the future fate. During the Roman Empire, the pomegranate became a treasure chest of copious grains fertility ambassadorso much so that it is introduced into wedding ceremonies. Today is a wish for new beginnings, especially on New Year’s Eve” explains the Dr. Andrea Carvelli, Nutritional Biologist, also available on MioDottore.
But, history and traditions aside, this fruit is a real booster of beneficial properties for physical, mental and even sexual health. Indeed it is very rich in vitamins, in particular A and C, as well as being full of fibre, water, fructose, mineral salts, having antioxidant properties and being among the anti-tumor foods. It is no coincidence that, as experts recommend, between autumn and the end of the year One pomegranate should be consumed a day.
The pomegranate is a treasure chest of well-being
«Beyond popular culture, this fruit is very rich in properties: it is in fact a real one concentrate of vitamins and mineralsin particular potassium, phosphorus and magnesium and phytochemical compounds to which all its health properties are ascribed. Among countless tannins, polyphenols and flavonoids, punicalagin stands out, the most abundant metabolite, whose beneficial peak coincides with its degradation, the moment in which it is converted into Ellagic acid, a highly active compound studied for its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and potentially anti-tumor properties. It is also an ingredient that it openly counteracts oxidative stress and also plays a crucial role in prevention of liver and cardiovascular diseases”.
But not just beans. As the expert specifies, one great wealth of benefits are also contained in the albedoor in the white part of the fruit: «The pectins, constituents of the soluble dietary fiber fraction, forming a viscous gel at the intestinal level, they reduce blood cholesterol levels, cellular absorption of glucose and, by slowing gastric emptying, prolong the feeling of satiety».
Protects the brain’s cognitive abilities and immune defenses
Like citrus fruits, pomegranate too for its rich presence of vitamin C strengthens the immune defenses, protecting against flu and colds, it is no coincidence that it is often recommended to prevent seasonal ailments. Some studies have highlighted that it is also a ally of cognitive processes, memory and learning. In other words it is brain friendly. The credit goes to ellagitannins, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory polyphenols that stimulate blood flow so as to prevent brain damage.
Polyphenols and antioxidants also help lower blood pressure, improve cholesterol absorption and have an anticoagulant action. The result? The risk of developing cardiovascular diseases such as stroke or the formation of blood clots is reduced. In addition to also being a gastroprotector: in fact it protects the barrier of the gastric mucosa so as to prevent intestinal inflammation, heartburn and viruses. It should not be underestimated that it is also a low-calorie fruit that helps the absorption of fats and counteracts lipid accumulation, therefore containing cholesterol levels.
Friend of married life and ideal antidepressant
Two other factors not to be underestimated are the presence of phytoestrogens, essential for women’s sexual health, as well as being an ally against erectile dysfunction; at the same time, being rich in estrogen, eating pomegranate means stimulate serotonin, vitamin E, selenium and beta-carotene. The result? Lowered anxiety levels and skyrocketing good mood.
How to take pomegranate
«In the harmony of a healthy and correct diet, the pomegranate can be an excellent ally. Its seeds can be used everywhere‘inside breakfasts and snacks combined with yogurtfor example, whose fat part further slows down the absorption of garnet sugars. Or the same ones grains, together with albedo, can also be effective components of a mixed salad». To add a little luck and well-being to your dishes.