Pomegranates are considered to be one of the healthiest fruits on Earth. This fruit is said to be the powerhouse of nutrients like protein, fibre, vitamins, folate, and potassium.
Pomegranate is rich in anti-oxidant, anti-viral, and anti-tumor properties and it is said that this red fruit contains almost three times higher antioxidants than wine or green tea.
It helps in boosting our immunity to fight type-2 diabetes and keeps the blood pressure in check, hence eating pomegranates or drinking its juice can benefit your body in many ways.
Studies have found that eating pomegranates increases blood flow to the uterus and thickens the uterine lining, which helps to reduce the risk of miscarriage. And if you’re trying to get pregnant, this fruit in your diet may help in improving your fertility.
Dr. Nupur Gupta, Founder Well Woman Clinic, Director Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology at Fortis Memorial Research Institute Gurugram, talked to the Healthwire about this and said, “Pomegranates are not only good for pregnancy but also for the over all health of a person. It is one of the ways women can try to improve their diet and maintain their health to get pregnant but we cannot just say that it is the only way to boost fertility among women.”
“Pomegranates do help in increasing the blood flow to the uterus and thickens the uterine lining, which helps in reducing the risk of miscarriage. So for maintaining a good uterine lining, it is recommended to avoid drinking packaged juice, and have fresh pomegranate seeds” she said.
Dr. Gupta added, “It is also a rumor that pomegranates not only helps women to improve their fertility but also helps to improve the sperm count in men because of the anti-oxidants present in them . Therefore it can help to increase the chances of conception as it keeps your body healthy.”
A study published in Pharmacognosy Magazine in the year 2015, also suggests that pomegranate extract supplement may help enhance longevity, fertility, and growth rate. However, the researchers urged to be vigilant that the wrong dosage could lead to adverse effects.
The other nutrients, such as vitamin C, vitamin K, and folic acid can support the healthy development of the fetus.
Drinking one cup of freshly extracted pomegranate juice or eating 1 to 2 cups of pomegranate seeds daily may increase your chances of getting pregnant.
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Pomegranate Juice May Help Manage Erectile Dysfunction
Pomegranate juice is also known for help in treating erectile dysfunction in men, which is defined as the inability to maintain an erection sufficient for sexual intercourse. As per estimates, erectile dysfunction affects approximately 15% of men each year.
A study published in the International Journal of Impotence Research in the year 2007, suggests that drinking a glass of pomegranate juice every day may help manage erectile dysfunction.
Diabetes, Hypertension, and smoking are also linked with erectile dysfunction. All these are a risk factor that leads to narrowing of arteries even in the penile region. Pomegranate juice helps to improve blood flow in the area, boost circulation, and reduce oxidative stress, a prime reason for developing ED.
Oxidative stress may also cause sperm dysfunction and decrease fertility in women.
Polyphenols, tannins, flavonoids, and anthocyanins are the antioxidants found in pomegranate, as well as vitamin C and polyphenols stimulates the production of nitric oxide, which keeps blood flowing and arteries open.
Drinking pomegranate juice can also increase testosterone levels in men and women, and is one of the main hormones behind sex drive.
Caution: It is always suggested to try these remedies under the doctor’s prescribed medication. It is advised not to try this natural remedy if you are taking medications for erectile dysfunction. Taking both pomegranate juice and prescribed medication simultaneously may lead to longer erection even after ejaculation. There have been such cases that needed hospitalization.
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Why Pomegranate is so beneficial?
Studies show pomegranates are good food for the overall health of a person, especially the heart. It is proven that they can improve blood flow to the heart and clear clogged arteries.
According to research at the University of Naples in Italy, it showed that dark pomegranate juice helped in the prevention and treatment of atherosclerosis. People suffering from osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, or joint pain may also find it beneficial.
Pomegranates have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that help block enzymes, which are known to damage joints and cause pain and stiffness. It plays wonders for health. and is often prescribed for the treatment of iron-deficiency anemia.