If you’ve ever eaten a pomegranate, you’re probably familiar with the fruit’s interesting internal structure. It contains hundreds of individual seed casings called arils, which must be separated from the rest of the fruit. The process can be time-consuming and messy (the juice stains!) but all that hard work does pay off, as these seeds are the source of numerous nutrients that may help support overall health.
For starters, pomegranates contain three times the amount of powerful polyphenols you’ll find in red wine or green tea. These potent antioxidants help protect your body’s cells from the attack of potentially harmful free radicals. They may also support healthy circulation, cardiovascular health and normal inflammatory response.
In addition to antioxidants, pomegranates are also rich in several health-helping vitamins, with a single fruit providing 40% of the recommended daily value of vitamin C, plus vitamins A, E and folic acid. Pomegranate is also a good source of fiber, niacin and potassium.
You’ll find pomegranate just about everywhere these days””from juices and jellies to martinis to marinades, and even shampoos and scrubs. Break one open today and see what all the fuss is about! (Just remember to wear an apron!)